Belton Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 7, 2026

Belton Pond Dam, located in York, South Carolina, was completed in 1965 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This private dam, standing at a height of 23 feet and a length of 260 feet, holds a maximum storage capacity of 76 acre-feet of water. With a normal storage level of 63 acre-feet, the dam encompasses a surface area of 7 acres and is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC). Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition was assessed as fair during the last inspection in December 2019.

The dam, constructed as an earth dam with a stone core on soil foundations, spans the TR-Little Allison Creek. Belton Pond Dam is under state jurisdiction and is subject to permitting, inspection, and enforcement by the SC DHEC. The dam is situated within the Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers and falls under the congressional representation of Ralph Norman (R). With no associated structures and no outlet gates, the dam presents a unique recreational opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts visiting Belton Pond Dam can appreciate its role in providing recreational opportunities while being mindful of its high hazard potential. The dam's fair condition assessment underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the preservation of the dam itself. As a privately owned structure, the responsibility for the upkeep and compliance of Belton Pond Dam falls on its owners, highlighting the critical role of private entities in the sustainable management of water resources and infrastructure.

Dam Height

23

Year Completed

1965

Nid Storage

76

Foundations

Soil

Surface Area

7

River Or Stream

TR-LITTLE ALLISON CREEK

Dam Length

260

Hazard Potential

High

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Height

23
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.