Elwin G. Smith Reservoir Report
Nearby: Millers Millpond Dam Csra Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Elwin G.
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Summary
Smith is a private fish and wildlife pond located in Burke, Georgia, with a primary purpose of supporting fish and wildlife populations. Constructed in 1959 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at 20 feet tall and spans 450 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 162 acre-feet, Elwin G. Smith plays a vital role in managing water resources in the area.
The dam is situated on Spring Branch and Newberry Creek, within the jurisdiction of the USDA NRCS and the Charleston District. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance. While the condition assessment is currently not available, it is crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts to keep a close eye on the risk management measures in place for Elwin G. Smith to ensure the safety and stability of this vital infrastructure.
As a key component of the water management system in Georgia, Elwin G. Smith serves as a valuable resource for both environmental conservation and recreational activities. With its strategic location and design, this dam continues to support the diverse ecosystem of the region while also providing a scenic backdrop for visitors to enjoy. As efforts to address climate change and water resource sustainability intensify, the significance of structures like Elwin G. Smith cannot be overstated in ensuring a balanced and resilient natural environment for future generations.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
Spring Branch; Newberry Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.38 |
Nid Storage |
162 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Brier Creek Near Waynesboro
|
399cfs |
Savannah River At Augusta
|
6790cfs |
Beaverdam Creek Near Sardis
|
7cfs |
Brier Creek At Millhaven
|
458cfs |
Spirit Creek At Us 1
|
11cfs |
Butler Creek Below 7th Avenue
|
8cfs |
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.
Elwin G. Smith