R M Watsons Pond Dam

FLAT ROCK CREEK· Saluda, South Carolina· Built 1950· 26 ft tall
High Hazard Irrigation Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

R M Watsons Pond Dam is classified as high hazard in South Carolina. It was completed in 1950 and is 76 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 26 ft (taller than 67% in SC)
Max Storage175 acre-ft
Normal Storage59 acre-ft
Surface Area6 acres
Year Completed1950 (76 years old)
NID IDSC01257

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

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

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: March 29, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: SC DHEC

Ownership

RIDGE VIEW FARMS LLC

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of R M Watsons Pond Dam?

R M Watsons Pond Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates R M Watsons Pond Dam?

R M Watsons Pond Dam is owned by RIDGE VIEW FARMS LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was R M Watsons Pond Dam built?

R M Watsons Pond Dam was completed in 1950, making it 76 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 R M Watsons Pond Dam?

R M Watsons Pond Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is R M Watsons Pond Dam?

R M Watsons Pond Dam has a dam height of 26 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 R M Watsons Pond Dam last inspected?

R M Watsons Pond Dam was last inspected on March 29, 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.