Cains Millpond Dam

NASTY BRANCH· Sumter, South Carolina· Built 1850· 9 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Cains Millpond Dam is classified as significant hazard in South Carolina. It was completed in 1850 and is 176 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 9 ft (taller than 3.2% in SC)
Max Storage550 acre-ft
Normal Storage375 acre-ft
Surface Area117 acres
Year Completed1850 (176 years old)
NID IDSC01436

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: May 26, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: SC DHEC

Ownership

CAINS MILL CORP

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Cains Millpond Dam?

Cains Millpond Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Cains Millpond Dam?

Cains Millpond Dam is owned by CAINS MILL CORP (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Cains Millpond Dam built?

Cains Millpond Dam was completed in 1850, making it 176 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Cains Millpond Dam?

Cains Millpond Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Cains Millpond Dam?

Cains Millpond Dam has a dam height of 9 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Cains Millpond Dam last inspected?

Cains Millpond Dam was last inspected on May 26, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.