J.W. Smith Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The J.W.


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Summary

Smith Reservoir Dam in Fayetteville, Georgia, is a crucial water supply structure owned by the local government and regulated by the GA-SAFE DAMS PROGRAM. Completed in 1984, this earth dam stands at a height of 42.5 feet and spans a length of 1400 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 4090 acre-feet and a normal storage of 2650 acre-feet. The reservoir serves as the primary source of water for the surrounding area, drawing from Shoal Creek and providing essential resources for the community.

Designed by Robert & Company, the J.W. Smith Reservoir Dam has an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment as of the last inspection in January 2016. The dam is situated in Clayton County, Georgia, and falls under the jurisdiction of the Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam continues to operate effectively in meeting the water supply needs of the region while maintaining a focus on safety and regulatory compliance.

As a key infrastructure project for water resource management in Georgia, the J.W. Smith Reservoir Dam represents a critical link in the local water supply chain. With its earth construction and stone core, the dam stands as a testament to engineering excellence and environmental stewardship. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the careful planning and maintenance efforts that go into ensuring the continued functionality and safety of this essential piece of infrastructure in the region.

Year Completed

1984

Dam Length

1400

Dam Height

42.5

River Or Stream

Shoal Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

250

Nid Storage

4090

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

43
       
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.