Austin Lake Dam, located in Smithfield, North Carolina, stands as a pivotal structure along the White Oak Creek, boasting a significant hydraulic height of 12.5 feet.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1900, this concrete dam serves multiple purposes, including recreation and storage, with a normal storage capacity of 185 acre-feet. Despite its fair condition assessment and significant hazard potential, the dam has not been regulated by the state and lacks a state permitting process.
With a structural height of 15.5 feet and a length of 100 feet, Austin Lake Dam holds a storage capacity of 296 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 37 acres. The dam has a drainage area of 8,704 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 82 cubic feet per second. Although it has not been modified in recent years, the dam's last inspection in November 2017 highlighted its fair condition, emphasizing the need for regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure safety and prevent potential risks to the surrounding community.
As one of the key landmarks in Johnston County, Austin Lake Dam's presence showcases the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. Despite its private ownership and lack of state regulation, the dam's role in providing essential storage and recreational opportunities underscores the importance of ongoing assessment and risk management measures to safeguard both the structure and the environment it serves.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
100 |
River Or Stream |
White Oak Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
37 |
Hydraulic Height |
12.5 |
Drainage Area |
8704 |
Nid Storage |
296 |
Structural Height |
15.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
16 |