Warren Norman Dam in Lancaster, South Carolina, stands as a crucial water resource structure, regulating the flow of Sandy Branch. This buttress dam reaches a height of 25 feet and spans 560 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 337 acre-feet. The dam's spillway, classified as controlled, ensures the safe release of excess water during periods of high flow, with a hazard potential rated as significant.

Managed by a private entity, Warren Norman Dam is subject to state regulation and inspection by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control. Despite being rated in fair condition as of the last assessment in 2017, the dam poses a very high risk due to its location and potential impact in case of failure. Regular inspections are conducted every three years to assess the dam's structural integrity and ensure that emergency preparedness measures are in place to mitigate risks to surrounding communities.

With its critical role in water management and flood control, Warren Norman Dam serves as a testament to the importance of maintaining infrastructure in a state with a history of extreme weather events. Climate enthusiasts and water resource experts alike can appreciate the complexities involved in managing and safeguarding this vital piece of South Carolina's water infrastructure.