Smith Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 3, 2026

Smith Lake, located in Ripley, Missouri, is a privately owned reservoir primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Constructed in 1963, this Earth dam stands at 15 feet high and has a storage capacity of 201 acre-feet. With a surface area of 25 acres and a drainage area of 44 square miles, Smith Lake offers a tranquil setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy the beauty of nature.

Despite its low hazard potential and not being regulated by the state, Smith Lake provides a safe and relaxing environment for visitors. The dam, made of Buttress core types, has not been rated for condition assessment, but its emergency action plan status is unknown. While the spillway width is listed as 0, the recreational opportunities and serene atmosphere make Smith Lake an ideal destination for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and birdwatching.

With its picturesque location surrounded by TR Harris Creek offstream, Smith Lake offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to connect with nature. While lacking detailed inspection and assessment information, the recreational opportunities and low hazard potential make it a desirable destination for water enthusiasts and climate advocates seeking a serene escape in the heart of Missouri's beautiful landscape.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

TR HARRIS CREEK OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Drainage Area

44

Nid Storage

201

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.