Smith Creek Dam, located in Lander, Nevada, stands as a vital infrastructure for irrigation purposes along the Smith Creek. Completed in 1938, this earth dam has a structural height of 54 feet and a storage capacity of 1350 acre-feet, primarily used for fire protection, stock, and irrigation. Despite its historical significance, the dam's condition assessment reveals a poor rating, with a high hazard potential and moderate risk level.

Managed by a private entity, Smith Creek Dam is regulated by the Nevada DWR, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement mechanisms in place. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with one slide gate outlet, and a spillway width of 20 feet. The last inspection in November 2021 highlighted the dam's deteriorating condition, prompting the need for enhanced risk management measures and potential rehabilitation efforts to ensure its long-term stability and safety for the surrounding community and water resource users.

With a captivating history dating back to nearly a century, Smith Creek Dam serves as a key component of water resource management in the region. As climate change impacts continue to pose challenges to water infrastructure, the future of this dam hinges on proactive maintenance strategies and effective risk mitigation measures. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate adaptation, the fate of Smith Creek Dam presents a compelling case study for the intersection of historical preservation, infrastructure resilience, and sustainable water management practices in the face of evolving environmental pressures.