Summary
Built in 1938, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 11.5 feet and has a reservoir capacity of 131 acre-feet, providing essential water storage for the surrounding area. The dam is state-regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), with regular inspections ensuring its structural integrity and safety.
The dam's spillway, an uncontrolled type with a width of 15 feet, helps manage water flow during times of high discharge, while the dam's hazard potential is classified as high, prompting moderate risk management measures. Despite this, the condition assessment in 2017 deemed the dam to be in satisfactory condition. The dam also plays a role in flood risk management, with a drainage area of 2.6 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 7 cubic feet per second. Overall, Smith Lake Dam stands as a crucial element in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region, providing essential habitat for local fish and wildlife populations.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
11.5 |
River Or Stream |
SMITH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
8.5 |
Drainage Area |
2.6 |
Nid Storage |
131 |
Structural Height |
11.5 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
12 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Whitefish Lake State Park
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Whitefish State Park
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Tally Lake
|
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Tally Lake Campground
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Moose Lake Campground
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Moose Lake
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Smith Lake Dam