Smith Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Smith Dam in Mississippi, completed in 1994, stands as a vital water resource structure along the untamed waters of Okatoma Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Owned privately and regulated by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes with a storage capacity of 196 acre-feet. With a manageable hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Smith Dam ensures the safety of surrounding areas while providing ample opportunities for outdoor enjoyment.

Located in Carroll County, Mississippi, Smith Dam spans 791 feet in length and reaches a height of 20 feet, offering a surface area of 21.7 acres for recreational activities. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway design of the dam allows for a maximum discharge of 200 cubic feet per second, ensuring proper management of water flow during periods of heavy rainfall. With its low hazard potential and a condition assessment not yet rated, Smith Dam remains a reliable structure for both water resource management and recreational enjoyment.

As a noteworthy feature within the Mobile District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Smith Dam reflects a harmonious blend of environmental conservation and public recreation. Its presence along Okatoma Creek adds to the diverse landscape of Mississippi, providing both locals and visitors with a tranquil oasis for fishing, boating, and other water-based activities. With its moderate risk assessment and commitment to safety measures, Smith Dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

791

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

UNT OF OKATOMA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

21.7

Drainage Area

0.07

Nid Storage

196

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.