Smith Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Smith Dam, located in Martinstown, Missouri, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 2002, this earth dam stands at 32 feet high with a hydraulic height of 30 feet and a structural height of 37 feet. It has a storage capacity of 27 acre-feet and serves a drainage area of 198.4 square miles, with a maximum discharge rate of 5.68 cubic feet per second.

The dam, situated on TR-North Blackbird Creek, is classified as low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. It features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 10 feet and outlet gates also designated as uncontrolled. Despite its relatively small surface area of 1 acre, the dam provides essential water resource management for the region. The last inspection was conducted in September 2002, with a condition assessment of "Not Rated" and no Emergency Action Plan in place.

Overall, Smith Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water supply for fire protection and livestock, as well as providing a habitat for small fish. While it has not been rated for condition assessment, its low hazard potential coupled with moderate risk management measures ensure the safety and functionality of the structure. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the significance of Smith Dam in sustaining the local ecosystem and agricultural activities in Putnam County, Missouri.

Year Completed

2002

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

TR-NORTH BLACKBIRD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

198.4

Nid Storage

27

Structural Height

37

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

37
       
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.