Mary Smith Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mary Smith Dam, located in Edgefield, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.


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Summary

The dam, built on Turkey Creek, serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond with a storage capacity of 55.2 acre-feet. Standing at 26 feet high and 266 feet long, the earthen dam boasts a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment as of its last inspection in July 2017.

Despite its modest size, Mary Smith Dam plays a crucial role in providing habitat for local fish and wildlife populations in the area. The controlled spillway ensures proper water management and mitigates any potential risks associated with the dam. With a very high risk assessment rating, the dam is closely monitored and inspected every five years to maintain its structural integrity and safety standards. While the dam has not undergone any major modifications since its construction, its presence contributes to the overall ecosystem health and water resource management in the region.

As a focal point for environmental conservation and recreational activities, Mary Smith Dam symbolizes the harmonious coexistence of human development and nature preservation. Its significance as a fish and wildlife habitat underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate change and increasing environmental challenges. With ongoing regulatory oversight and maintenance efforts, the dam continues to be a vital asset for the community, exemplifying the delicate balance between human needs and conservation priorities in the realm of water resources and climate resilience.

Dam Length

266

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TURKEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Nid Storage

55.2

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.