Smith Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Smith Lake Dam, located in Houston County, Georgia, was completed in 1975 and serves as a vital recreational spot in the Kersey Lake environs.


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Summary

Owned privately, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and stretches for 620 feet, with a storage capacity of 135 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the Redding Branch, offering a serene and picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Smith Lake Dam has not been officially rated for its condition. Despite lacking a formal inspection date, the dam is regularly monitored, with inspections scheduled every five years. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, contributing to its functional design for recreation purposes. Additionally, the surrounding area boasts a surface area of 16 acres and a drainage area of 2280 acres, making it a significant water resource for the region.

Overall, Smith Lake Dam presents an opportunity for visitors to enjoy a peaceful retreat in nature, while also highlighting the importance of maintaining and safeguarding water resources for future generations. As a key feature in the local landscape, this dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between recreation and conservation, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in water management and climate-related issues.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

620

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

REDDING BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Drainage Area

2280

Nid Storage

135

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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.