Smith Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Smith Lake Dam, located in the Lewis Lake Environs of Washington, Georgia, was completed in 1950 and serves as a recreational site for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
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Summary
This private earth dam, with a height of 15 feet and a length of 540 feet, holds a storage capacity of 296 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 12 acres. The dam is situated on the Gin Branch river and is primarily used for recreation purposes.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Smith Lake Dam has not been inspected since 2003, with a frequency of once every 5 years. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, and while it is not state-regulated, it falls under the jurisdiction of Georgia. The structure is not rated for its condition, but it continues to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors to enjoy water activities and explore the surrounding natural landscape. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Smith Lake Dam offers a tranquil setting to appreciate the intersection of human infrastructure and the natural environment.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
540 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
GIN BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Nid Storage |
296 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Williamson Swamp Creek At Davisboro
|
150cfs |
Ogeechee River At Midville
|
553cfs |
Buffalo Creek At Ga 272
|
120cfs |
Oconee River Near Oconee
|
3050cfs |
Oconee River At Avant Mine
|
1570cfs |
Oconee River At Dublin
|
2820cfs |
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 Dam