Smith Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Smith, Walker, and Johnson Lake Dam, located in Gurley, Alabama, is a private dam that serves primarily as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

Constructed in 1963 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a length of 1000 feet. With a storage capacity of 155 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources for recreation and wildlife conservation in the area.

Despite being classified as Significant in terms of hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment has not been rated as of yet. The spillway of the dam is uncontrolled with a width of 50 feet, allowing for the release of excess water during peak flow events. The dam is situated on Sand Branch and falls under the jurisdiction of the Mobile District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.

Overall, Smith, Walker, and Johnson Lake Dam serve as a vital structure for water management and conservation efforts in Madison County, Alabama. Its presence not only supports fish and wildlife habitats but also provides a recreational space for local residents. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and monitoring of such dams become increasingly crucial in safeguarding both the environment and communities that rely on them.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

1000

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

SAND BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.8

Nid Storage

155

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

25
       
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.