Smith Lake Dam, located in Hillsborough, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1961 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet with a hydraulic height of 20 feet, providing a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet. Situated on Crabtree Creek-Tr, the dam has a drainage area of 326 square miles and a maximum discharge rate of 363 cubic feet per second.
With a fair condition assessment and low hazard potential, Smith Lake Dam is regulated and inspected by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, serving as a crucial recreational resource for the local community. Despite its moderate risk assessment score of 3, the dam has not undergone any significant modifications in recent years, maintaining its structural integrity and safety standards.
Overall, Smith Lake Dam serves as a vital structure in Orange County, providing both recreational opportunities and water resource management capabilities. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, the dam plays a key role in maintaining the environmental health and safety of the surrounding area. As a focal point for water enthusiasts and climate advocates, Smith Lake Dam continues to be a notable landmark in the region, showcasing the importance of responsible dam management and stewardship.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
603 |
River Or Stream |
Crabtree Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
326 |
Nid Storage |
150 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Cane Creek Near Orange Grove
|
1cfs |
Eno River At Hillsborough
|
12cfs |
Morgan Creek Near White Cross
|
1cfs |
Haw River At Haw River
|
165cfs |
Morgan Creek Near Chapel Hill
|
20cfs |
Eno River Near Durham
|
25cfs |