Butternut Tree Farm Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Butternut Tree Farm Dam, located in Kershaw, South Carolina, is a privately owned irrigation structure regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).


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Summary

This earth dam, with a height of 19 feet and a length of 500 feet, serves the primary purpose of irrigation for the surrounding area. With a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet and a surface area of 14 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and being in fair condition as of the last inspection in 2017, Butternut Tree Farm Dam is subject to regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam's location on TR-GUM SWAMP CREEK within the Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers underscores its importance in the local water infrastructure. With a history of providing vital water resources for irrigation, the dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water management and agricultural practices in the region.

As a key component of the water infrastructure in South Carolina, Butternut Tree Farm Dam serves as a vital resource for water supply and irrigation. Its presence highlights the importance of maintaining and regulating dams to ensure water security and sustainability in the face of climate change and increasing water demands. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience can appreciate the role that Butternut Tree Farm Dam plays in balancing agricultural needs with environmental stewardship in the region.

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

TR-GUM SWAMP CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Nid Storage

300

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

19
       
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.