Walter Smith Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Smith Dam East Yellow Creek H- 30
Last Updated: December 23, 2025
Walter Smith Dam, located in Linn, Missouri, was completed in 1995 with a primary purpose of grade stabilization along the TR-Mussel Fork river.
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Summary
This private Earth dam stands at a structural height of 28 feet and spans 200 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 25 acre-feet. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a spillway width of 10 feet, and it has a low hazard potential rating.
Despite not being regulated by the state, the dam serves an important role in managing water resources in the area, with a moderate risk assessment score of 3. With a drainage area of 590 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 18 acre-feet, Walter Smith Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and maintaining water quality in the region. While the dam has not been inspected and its condition remains unrated, its strategic location and design contribute to its effectiveness in managing water resources.
Owned privately and located in the Rock Island District, Walter Smith Dam is a key infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor. Its presence along the TR-Mussel Fork river underscores its importance in maintaining a balance between water supply, flood control, and environmental sustainability in the region. As a grade stabilization dam with a stone core and soil foundation, Walter Smith Dam exemplifies the intersection of engineering precision and environmental stewardship in water resource management.
Year Completed |
1995 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
29.9 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MUSSEL FORK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Drainage Area |
590 |
Nid Storage |
25 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Walter Smith Dam