Smith Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hobbs Lake Dam Hatchett Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Smith Lake Dam, located in Laurens, Georgia, is a privately owned structure built in 1978 by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS) with a primary purpose of recreation.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam, constructed as an earth buttress type with a height of 12 feet and a length of 975 feet, impounds Rum Creek to create a reservoir with a storage capacity of 161 acre-feet. The dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.
Although Smith Lake Dam has not been inspected since March 1988, it is noted to have a low hazard potential and is considered to be in good condition. The dam features uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, and there are no associated structures or locks. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating a certain level of risk in case of a failure. Despite not being regulated by the state, the dam is under state jurisdiction and subject to periodic inspections.
Overall, Smith Lake Dam serves as a vital recreational resource in the area, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water activities. As a privately owned structure, it is important for the owners to ensure regular maintenance and inspection to mitigate any potential risks and ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment. With its historical significance and ongoing role in water resource management, Smith Lake Dam remains a key feature in the local landscape.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
975 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
RUM CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15 |
Nid Storage |
161 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Oconee River At Dublin
|
1070cfs |
Oconee River Near Oconee
|
895cfs |
Buffalo Creek At Ga 272
|
54cfs |
Oconee River At Avant Mine
|
614cfs |
Williamson Swamp Creek At Davisboro
|
56cfs |
Oconee River Near Mount Vernon
|
1340cfs |
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