Smithville Dam (Possum Hill Road)
May 1, 2024
Smithville Dam, also known as Smithville Community Lake, is a state-owned recreational earth dam located in Federalsburg, Maryland. Built in 1980 by the Maryland State Highway Administration, this dam spans a length of 597 feet and reaches a height of 14 feet, providing a storage capacity of 336 acre-feet. The dam sits on the Marshyhope-TR-Smithville Ditch and serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene 40-acre surface area for water enthusiasts to enjoy.
With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Smithville Dam is regulated by the Maryland Dam Safety agency, ensuring that state permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures are in place for its safety and maintenance. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 100 feet and a maximum discharge of 2282 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk assessment, Smithville Dam remains a popular destination for outdoor activities and water recreation in Caroline County, Maryland.
Located in a picturesque setting and offering a tranquil escape for visitors, Smithville Dam serves as a testament to Maryland's commitment to water resource management and climate resilience. With its state-regulated operations and scenic surroundings, this dam stands as a vital asset for the local community while also highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring dam infrastructure for sustainable water management practices.
Year_Completed | 1980 |
Dam_Height | 14 |
River_Or_Stream | Marshyhope-TR-Smithville Ditch |
Dam_Length | 597 |
Primary_Dam_Type | Earth |
Surface_Area | 40 |
Drainage_Area | 9.9 |
Nid_Storage | 336 |
Outlet_Gates | Slide (sluice gate) - 0 |
Hazard_Potential | Low |
Foundations | Rock, Soil |
Nid_Height | 14 |