Smith Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Smith Dam, located in Sac County, Iowa, on the TR-Raccon River, was completed in 2015 and serves as a vital structure for flood risk reduction in the area.
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Summary
Owned privately, the dam stands at a height of 33 feet with a length of 290 feet, providing storage capacity of 59 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Smith Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and regulated by the state, Smith Dam undergoes regular inspections and is subject to state permitting and enforcement. Despite not having a designated spillway type or width, the dam's primary purpose remains flood risk reduction, with a normal storage capacity of 12 acre-feet. The dam's earth structure with a stone core foundation ensures its durability and effectiveness in managing water resources in the area.
Although Smith Dam does not fall under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers, it plays a significant role in water resource management in Iowa. With its strategic location and design focused on flood risk reduction, Smith Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in addressing climate challenges and protecting communities from potential water-related disasters.
Year Completed |
2015 |
Dam Length |
290 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
TR-Raccon River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Drainage Area |
0.49 |
Nid Storage |
59 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Raccoon River Near Sac City
|
312cfs |
Little Sioux River At Linn Grove
|
257cfs |
Little Sioux River At Correctionville
|
327cfs |
Ocheyedan River Near Spencer
|
59cfs |
Des Moines River At Fort Dodge
|
1320cfs |
Des Moines River At Humboldt
|
401cfs |
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 Dam