James Hugh Ryan Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mine Hills Dam Hm Mclaurin Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
The James Hugh Ryan Pond Dam in Sumter, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure that serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond for the local community.
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Summary
This Earth-type dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a length of 475 feet, with a storage capacity of 250 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.
Located on TR-Beech Creek, the James Hugh Ryan Pond Dam provides essential habitat for fish and wildlife while also offering recreational opportunities for visitors. With a fair condition assessment and a moderate risk rating, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management in the region. Although it operates with an uncontrolled spillway and has no associated locks or outlet gates, the dam remains an important feature in the local watershed, contributing to the overall health of the ecosystem.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to recognize the significance of structures like the James Hugh Ryan Pond Dam in maintaining biodiversity and supporting conservation efforts. By understanding the regulatory framework and maintenance practices associated with dams like this one, we can better appreciate the role they play in sustaining healthy ecosystems and mitigating the impacts of climate change on water resources. The James Hugh Ryan Pond Dam stands as a testament to the interconnectedness of human activities and natural systems, highlighting the importance of responsible stewardship in safeguarding our waterways for future generations.
Dam Length |
475 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BEECH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Nid Storage |
250 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wateree R. Bl Eastover
|
2400cfs |
Wateree River Nr. Camden
|
2170cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
76cfs |
Lynches River Near Bishopville
|
425cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
4580cfs |
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
9cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
James Hugh Ryan Pond Dam
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