Smith Farms Irrigation Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Weeks Lake Dam Hancock Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Smith Farms Irrigation Pond Dam, also known as Smith Lake Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Jefferson, Georgia, near the Baker Branch stream.
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Summary
Built in 1977 by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS), this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and serves primarily for irrigation purposes. With a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet and a surface area of 22 acres, this dam plays a vital role in supporting agricultural activities in the region.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Smith Farms Irrigation Pond Dam has a moderate risk rating due to its age and lack of recent inspections. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates pose potential safety concerns that require regular monitoring and maintenance. While the dam has not been assessed for its condition, it is crucial for the private owners to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with safety regulations to prevent any potential risks to the surrounding area.
With no state regulation and limited federal oversight, it is essential for the owners of Smith Farms Irrigation Pond Dam to take proactive measures in managing the dam's risks and ensuring its safety. Regular inspections, maintenance, and emergency preparedness plans are crucial to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard the local community and environment. As an integral part of the water resource infrastructure in the area, the responsible stewardship of this dam is paramount for sustainable agriculture and water management practices.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
660 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
BAKER BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
22 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
300 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Ogeechee River At Midville
|
662cfs |
Williamson Swamp Creek At Davisboro
|
83cfs |
Brier Creek Near Waynesboro
|
399cfs |
Beaverdam Creek Near Sardis
|
7cfs |
Ogeechee River At Rocky Ford Rd
|
557cfs |
Spirit Creek At Us 1
|
11cfs |
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 Farms Irrigation Pond Dam