Smith Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Smith Lake Dam, located in St.


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Summary

Clair, Missouri, is a private earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation. Completed in 1952, the dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 144 acre-feet, providing water for various recreational activities. The dam is situated on a tributary to the Meramec River and is managed by the Kansas City District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.

With a high hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Smith Lake Dam poses a potential risk to the surrounding area in case of failure. Despite not being regulated by the state, the dam's owners are responsible for its maintenance and upkeep. Although the dam lacks certain safety features such as spillways and outlet gates, its recreational value to the community highlights the importance of ensuring its structural integrity for the safety of all visitors.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to monitor and assess the condition of dams like Smith Lake Dam to mitigate risks and ensure the safety of communities and the environment. By staying informed about the dam's maintenance and emergency preparedness measures, enthusiasts can contribute to the sustainable management of water resources in the region. Smith Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the intersection between human recreation and the need for responsible stewardship of our water infrastructure in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR TO MERAMEC RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Drainage Area

520

Nid Storage

144

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

30
       
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.