Smith Lake Dam, located in Cabarrus, North Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Standing at a structural height of 20 feet and a hydraulic height of 16 feet, this dam was completed in 1951 and has a storage capacity of 169 acre-feet. The dam spans a length of 660 feet and is situated on Little Meadow Creek-Tr, with a drainage area of 192 square miles.
Despite not being state regulated, Smith Lake Dam is subject to inspections to ensure its safety and integrity. The dam poses a significant hazard potential and its condition assessment is currently not rated. The last inspection was conducted in November 2018, with no emergency action plan (EAP) in place. While the dam does not have associated structures or locks, it serves as a recreational spot for the community and offers a surface area of 15 acres for various water activities.
In the realm of water resource and climate enthusiasts, Smith Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned recreational dam in North Carolina. With its historical significance dating back to the early 1950s, the dam continues to provide a serene environment for water enthusiasts to enjoy. As discussions around dam safety and risk management persist, Smith Lake Dam stands as a noteworthy example of the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety of such structures in the face of potential hazards.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
660 |
River Or Stream |
Little Meadow Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
192 |
Nid Storage |
169 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
20 |