Gasque Farm Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Gasque Farm Dam, located in Orangeburg, South Carolina, stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Constructed in 1985 by the USDA NRCS, this privately owned Earth dam spans 730 feet in length and reaches a height of 17 feet. With a storage capacity of 285 acre-feet, the dam regulates water flow from Keller Branch, effectively supporting agricultural activities in the region.

Despite its vital role in irrigation, Gasque Farm Dam has been flagged for poor condition assessment, raising concerns about its long-term structural integrity. The dam's hazard potential is classified as low, but its risk assessment is deemed very high, emphasizing the need for immediate attention to prevent potential disasters. The South Carolina DHEC oversees the dam's regulatory compliance, inspection, and enforcement, underscoring the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts.

As climate change intensifies, the significance of maintaining and upgrading infrastructure like Gasque Farm Dam becomes increasingly critical. With the support of state agencies and the involvement of the local community, proactive measures can be taken to ensure the dam's resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges. Gasque Farm Dam stands as a reminder of the interconnectedness between water resources, climate resilience, and sustainable development, urging stakeholders to prioritize the preservation of vital infrastructure for future generations.

Year Completed

1985

Dam Length

730

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

KELLER BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

41

Nid Storage

285

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

17
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.