Smith Farm #5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Smith Farm #5 is a private fish and wildlife pond located in Sumter, Alabama, near the city of Epes.


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Summary

Constructed in 1987 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth dam stands at a height of 13 feet and has a length of 820 feet. With a storage capacity of 124.1 acre-feet and a surface area of 16 acres, this pond serves as a vital habitat for various aquatic species.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Smith Farm #5 presents a moderate risk due to its location and design features. The spillway, which is uncontrolled and 50 feet wide, can discharge up to 350 cubic feet per second. The dam's primary purpose is to support fish and wildlife, highlighting its importance in promoting biodiversity and conservation efforts in the region.

While Smith Farm #5 has not been inspected since 1987 and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, its role in providing a sustainable ecosystem for aquatic life underscores the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to recognize the significance of such structures in preserving our natural environment and ensuring the long-term health of our water resources.

Year Completed

1987

Dam Length

820

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

TR-FACTORY CK.

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Drainage Area

0.16

Nid Storage

124.1

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.