Smith Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Smith Lake Dam in Scott County, Indiana, is a private dam constructed in 1952 by the USDA NRCS for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

With a height of 28 feet and a length of 500 feet, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 217 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 141 acre-feet. It is situated on an unnamed tributary of Woods Fork and is regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and has a low hazard potential with a fair condition assessment as of December 2013. The last inspection was conducted in April 2018, with a frequency of every five years. The risk assessment for the dam is classified as moderate (3), indicating a moderate level of risk associated with its operation and maintenance. Overall, Smith Lake Dam provides a recreational outlet for enthusiasts in the area while complying with state regulations and inspection requirements.

Located in the city of Scottsburg, Smith Lake Dam offers a surface area of 15 acres and a drainage area of 0.24 square miles. The dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 527 cubic feet per second and does not have outlet gates. With its picturesque setting and moderate risk level, Smith Lake Dam serves as a vital resource for water storage, flood control, and recreational activities in the region, attracting visitors and climate enthusiasts alike to its tranquil waters and scenic surroundings.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY WOODS FORK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

0.24

Nid Storage

217

Structural Height

28

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.