Smith Lake 1 Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: B C Smith Lake Dam Smith Lake 2 Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Smith Lake 1 Dam, located in White County, Arkansas, was completed in 1966 and stands at a height of 17 feet.
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Summary
The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, offering a serene setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy. Situated on Departee Creek, the dam boasts a maximum storage capacity of 94 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 13 acres.
Despite its modest size, Smith Lake 1 Dam has a high hazard potential, making regular inspections crucial for its safety and maintenance. The last recorded inspection dates back to May 1981, with the condition assessment noted as "Not Rated." While the dam is privately owned and not regulated by the state, it serves as a valuable resource for the community of Bradford and surrounding areas, providing both recreational opportunities and essential water storage capacity.
With its picturesque location and recreational offerings, Smith Lake 1 Dam is a hidden gem in the Arkansas landscape. As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore its waters, it's essential to recognize the dam's importance in providing both leisure and vital water storage capabilities for the region. Regular inspections and maintenance efforts will ensure the dam continues to serve its purpose safely and effectively for years to come.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
570 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
DEPARTEE CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Drainage Area |
0.28 |
Nid Storage |
94 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White River Near Augusta
|
11700cfs |
Little Red River Near Dewey
|
2100cfs |
White River At Newport
|
11300cfs |
White River At Georgetown
|
11200cfs |
White River At Batesville
|
43800cfs |
Black River At Elgin Ferry
|
3780cfs |
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.
Smith Lake 1 Dam