Floyd Smith Number 1 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Floyd Smith Number 1 Dam, located in Lawrence, Mississippi, stands as a testament to engineering excellence with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 2003, this Earth-type dam boasts a structural height of 16 feet and a hydraulic height of 15 feet, providing storage capacity of up to 122 acre-feet. Situated on the Shaw Branch river, this dam covers a surface area of 11.1 acres and has a drainage area of 0.39 square miles, contributing to the local water resource management.

Managed by a private owner, Floyd Smith Number 1 Dam is regulated by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, ensuring compliance with state standards for inspection, permitting, and enforcement. Despite being categorized as having an undetermined hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment level, this dam remains a vital component of the local ecosystem and water infrastructure. With no associated structures and a spillway type of "Uncontrolled," this dam serves as a critical tool for managing water flow in the area.

Floyd Smith Number 1 Dam, designed by Shannon McCarty-NRCS, represents a harmonious blend of functionality and environmental stewardship. With its strategic location and impressive specifications, this dam is a beacon for water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates alike, showcasing the importance of sound engineering practices in preserving and utilizing our precious water resources.

Year Completed

2003

Dam Length

591

Dam Height

15.5

River Or Stream

SHAW BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11.1

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

0.39

Nid Storage

122

Structural Height

16

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

16
       
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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.