Smitherman Millpond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Capelsie, North Carolina, the Smitherman Millpond Dam is a private structure on the Little River, with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1900, this concrete dam stands at a hydraulic height of 10 feet and a structural height of 10 feet, with a length of 316 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 40 acre-feet and a surface area of 35 acres.

Although the Smitherman Millpond Dam is not state-regulated, it undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety, with the last inspection taking place in February 2008. Classified as having a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," this dam serves as a vital resource for recreational activities in the area. With its historical significance and picturesque surroundings, the Smitherman Millpond Dam is a key feature in the Montgomery County landscape, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife observation.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Smitherman Millpond Dam presents an intriguing blend of history and engineering, providing a unique recreational experience while also serving as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and inspecting infrastructure to ensure public safety. As a private structure with a long-standing presence in the community, this dam continues to be a focal point for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, contributing to the beauty and biodiversity of the surrounding area.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

316

River Or Stream

Little River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

35

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

104320

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.