Smith Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bolton Lake Dam Prescott Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Smith Lake Dam, located in Terrell, Georgia, is a privately owned structure primarily used for fire protection, stock, or as a small fish pond.
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Summary
This earth-type dam stands at a height of 11.8 feet, with a storage capacity of 129 acre-feet and a surface area of 21.2 acres. Despite being unregulated by the state, the dam is regularly inspected and has a low hazard potential.
The dam, built with a buttress core type, features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. With a drainage area of 635 square miles, it serves a crucial role in water resource management in the region. Although the condition assessment is not rated, the risk assessment is moderate, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.
Located in the Savannah District, Smith Lake Dam's last inspection was in 2016, with a frequency of every 5 years. While it presents a moderate risk, the dam plays a vital role in the local ecosystem and water supply. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Smith Lake Dam an intriguing site for its unique design and purpose in the Georgia landscape.
Dam Length |
705 |
Dam Height |
11.8 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
0.5 |
Drainage Area |
635 |
Nid Storage |
129 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Kinchafoonee Creek Near Dawson
|
531cfs |
Kinchafoonee Creek At Preston
|
220cfs |
Muckalee Creek At Ga 195
|
419cfs |
Muckalee Creek Near Americus
|
222cfs |
Ichawaynochaway Creek At Ga 37
|
332cfs |
Flint River At Albany
|
3510cfs |
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