Smithson Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ms07103 Lake Dam Mcdaniel Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Smithson Lake Dam, located in Newport, Mississippi, was completed in 1955 and is owned and operated by a private entity.
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Summary
Designed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes. The dam is situated on the TR- Roby Creek, within the Mobile District of the USACE, and is regulated by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality.
With a storage capacity of 96 acre-feet, Smithson Lake Dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. While the condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated" and the hazard potential is deemed "Undetermined," the risk assessment categorizes the dam as having a moderate risk level. Although there are no associated structures and the dam's inspections and emergency preparedness details are lacking, it remains a crucial feature for the local community's recreational activities and water resource management efforts.
As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Smithson Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure and regulation. With its unique design features and historical significance, this earth dam stands as a testament to the importance of water management in ensuring both recreational enjoyment and environmental safety in the region. As discussions surrounding climate change and water scarcity continue to grow, understanding the role and maintenance of structures like Smithson Lake Dam becomes increasingly vital for sustainable resource management.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
TR- ROBY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
96 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Yockanookany River Nr Kosciusko
|
54cfs |
Yockanookany River Nr Ofahoma
|
96cfs |
Big Black River At West
|
190cfs |
Pearl River Nr Lena
|
532cfs |
Pearl River Nr Carthage
|
277cfs |
Harland Creek Nr Howard
|
3340cfs |
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.
Smithson Lake Dam