Virgil Smith Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Morgan Pond Dam (Sw) Farabow Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Virgil Smith Dam, located in Ben Hill, Georgia, was completed in 1968 and serves primarily for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
This Earth dam, with a height of 16 feet and a length of 685 feet, has a storage capacity of 88 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 9 acres. The dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.
Managed by a private owner, Virgil Smith Dam was designed by SCS and falls under the jurisdiction of the state of Georgia. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with no associated locks. While the dam has not been rated for its condition, it has undergone its last inspection in 2008. Despite the lack of state regulation and inspection, the dam's risk management measures aim to address potential risks and ensure the safety of the surrounding area.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Virgil Smith Dam presents an interesting case study of a privately owned irrigation structure in Georgia. The dam's location, design, and operational details provide valuable insights into the management of water resources in the region. With a focus on risk assessment and management, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining infrastructure for sustainable water use and environmental protection in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
685 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
300 |
Nid Storage |
88 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Turnpike Creek Near Mcrae
|
0cfs |
Alapaha River Near Alapaha
|
12cfs |
Ocmulgee River At Lumber City
|
2080cfs |
Little R At Tifton Worth Co Line Rd
|
0cfs |
Oconee River Near Mount Vernon
|
2230cfs |
Altamaha River Near Baxley
|
3480cfs |
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 Dam