W H Smith Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

W H Smith Lake Dam in Bulloch, Georgia, stands as a testament to the crucial role of irrigation in water resource management.


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Summary

Completed in 1955, this private earth dam serves the primary purpose of providing water for irrigation, with a storage capacity of 351 acre-feet. The dam spans 1080 feet in length and reaches a height of 16 feet, playing a key role in supporting agricultural activities in the region.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's moderate risk level underscores the importance of regular inspections and risk management measures. With a last inspection date in 2004 and an inspection frequency of 5 years, there is room for improvement in ensuring the structural integrity and safety of the dam. The presence of uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates also highlights the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks and safeguard the surrounding communities and environment.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the significance of dams like W H Smith Lake Dam in sustaining agricultural livelihoods and water security. By staying informed about the condition and management of such critical infrastructure, we can contribute to the sustainable utilization of water resources and the resilience of our ecosystems in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

1080

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

23

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

405

Nid Storage

351

Structural Height

14

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
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.