Smith Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Walter Smith Dam Leisure Dam
Last Updated: December 23, 2025
Smith Dam, located in Linn, Missouri, along the Badger Creek, serves as a crucial structure for grade stabilization in the area.
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Summary
Built in 1997, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet, with a hydraulic height of 24 feet and a structural height of 29 feet. With a storage capacity of 20 acre-feet and a drainage area of 281.6 square miles, Smith Dam plays a vital role in managing the water resources in the region.
Despite being privately owned, Smith Dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 10 feet and no outlet gates. With a maximum discharge capacity of 10 cubic feet per second, the dam contributes to the overall water management system in the Rock Island District. While the dam's condition assessment is listed as "Not Rated," it remains a key infrastructure for maintaining water levels and preventing erosion along the Badger Creek.
In the event of an emergency, the dam is equipped with an emergency action plan, although specific details regarding its preparation and guidelines adherence are not provided. With its primary purpose of grade stabilization, Smith Dam serves as a valuable asset for the community of New Boston and the surrounding areas. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role and importance of dams like Smith Dam is essential in ensuring the sustainable management of our natural resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1997 |
Dam Length |
271 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
BADGER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
281.6 |
Nid Storage |
20 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
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.
Smith Dam