Summary
Built in 1972 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth dam stands at 23 feet high and spans 240 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 179 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Virgil Smith is to support fish and wildlife activities, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and outdoor recreation lovers.
Situated on TR Black Creek in Etowah County, Virgil Smith offers a surface area of 17 acres and a drainage area of 1.09 square miles. With a moderate hazard potential and a low risk assessment score, this dam provides a safe and sustainable environment for its surrounding community. Despite being privately owned, Virgil Smith Lake serves as a vital resource for the region's ecological balance and contributes to the overall water management efforts in Alabama.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service and falling under the jurisdiction of the Mobile District, Virgil Smith remains a well-maintained structure with a solid construction history. While not currently rated for its condition, this dam continues to support its primary functions effectively. As a valuable asset for fish and wildlife conservation, Virgil Smith stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate change challenges.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
240 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TR BLACK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17 |
Drainage Area |
1.09 |
Nid Storage |
179 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Virgil Smith