Manager’s Report

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Board of Director’s Meetings:

Over the past three months we have seen  an increase in property owners attending  the monthly Board of Director’s Meetings.  As a result, we are now meeting downstairs  in the Dining Room allowing for plenty  of room and the ability to practice social  distancing. We encourage all residents to  come and be a part of the governance of  the community. 

We would like to remind everyone that we  do practice meeting rules of order to help  ensure a smooth operational meeting. Any  resident wishing to address the Board is  welcomed to so and we ask that you contact  Donna Hasting in the Clubhouse by the  Friday before the meeting to be placed  on the agenda. Each presenter is allowed  5 minutes to speak followed by possible  questions from the Board. If necessary, the  Board will discuss at the end of the meeting  in Executive Session.

Understanding Dam Classifications:

I am often asked questions related to our two major regulated dams –  Gatewood Drive and Tall Pines Trail. Dams are classified based on their  size (large, intermediate, small & very small) and their hazard potential (high,  significant & low). For a dam to be regulated by South Carolina DHEC, it  must meet at least one of the following criteria. 

A dam is subject to regulation under the Dams and Reservoirs Safety Act if it: 

  • Is 25 feet or greater in height from dam crest (top) to lowest point on the  downstream side; or, 
  • Can impound (hold back) 50 acre-feet (i.e., 2,178,000 cubic feet) or more  of water at maximum storage; or, 
  • Represents a high-hazard potential where improper operation or dam failure  may cause loss of human life, regardless of the overall size of the dam. 
  • Hazard potential is determined by the department using the best available  data and evaluating the potential loss of human life or property damage in  the event of failure or improper operation of the dam. 
  • A High Hazard Potential (Class 1) dam is a structure where its failure  will likely cause loss of life and/or serious damage to homes, industrial &  commercial facilities, and main highways or railroads. 
  • A Significant Hazard Potential (Class 2) dam is a structure where its failure  will not likely cause loss of life, but may cause damage to homes, industrial  & commercial facilities, secondary highways or railroads, or cause  interruption of use or service relatively important public utilities. 
  • A Low Hazard Potential (Class 3) dam is a structure where its failure may  cause limited property damage to others and loss of life is not expected. 
  •  Both of Gatewood Dams are classified as Class 1 and are regulated by  DHEC. The regulatory agency physically inspects our dams every two  years. To ensure we maintain these amenities in good shape, Management  and the Lawn Crew perform monthly inspections of each dam. During these  inspections we check the following: 
  • Monitor inlet for debris and remove if necessary 
  • Check emergency spillway to make sure it is clear of debris or vegetative  growth that would impede the flow of water 
  • Monitor and treat for ants if necessary – upper & lower slope 
  • Monitor and cut & remove any growth or woody vegetation – upper &  lower slope 
  • Monitor, cut & remove any trees less than 4”diameter – lower slope only · Monitor/inspect for any erosion around the exit pipe 
  • Monitor/inspect the entire back side/slope of dam for animal burrows;  erosion and seepage 
  • Monitor/inspect area beneath dock on upstream slope for erosion and  animal burrows 
  • Open and test gate valve on dam every quarter

Mailbox Maintenance:

We would like to remind all residents of the importance of proper maintenance  and upkeep. 

To keep your mailbox looking it’s best ~ cleaning every three months is  recommended. A simple wipe down with a wet towel and cleaner is all you  need. To help protect it from the elements and looking new, car wax works  well (Liquid Turtle Wax is a good choice). 

Occasionally, a fresh coat of paint is needed for the post which often can  accumulate algae, moss and rust from normal weathering. Thank you for  helping us keep Gatewood looking nice!

Sincerely,

Wilson Bruce – Association Manager