Smith Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cambro Lake Dam Olde Farm Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Smith Lake Dam in Harnett, North Carolina, stands as a vital structure along the North Prong Anderson Creek, serving primarily for irrigation purposes since its completion in 1935.
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Summary
This private earth dam, with a hydraulic height of 27 feet and a structural height of 18 feet, boasts a capacity of 194 acre-feet of water storage for agricultural needs. Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the last inspection in July 2013 underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure continued safety and functionality.
Situated in the city of Linden, Smith Lake Dam not only supports irrigation but also offers recreational opportunities within its 12.3-acre surface area. Its location within the Wilmington District underlines the significance of water resource management in the region, with a maximum storage capacity of 194 acre-feet for sustainable water usage. While not federally regulated, the dam's operation and inspection by the state of North Carolina affirm its essential role in local water supply and environmental conservation efforts.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Smith Lake Dam represents a historical landmark of water management in North Carolina, embodying the delicate balance between human needs and ecological preservation. As a private earth dam with a notable irrigation and recreational purpose, its presence underscores the importance of responsible stewardship of water resources in the face of changing climate patterns. Continued vigilance and investment in infrastructure maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity and safety of Smith Lake Dam for future generations to come.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
530 |
River Or Stream |
North Prong Anderson Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Nid Storage |
194 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little River At Manchester
|
161cfs |
Cape Fear River At Lillington
|
314cfs |
Flat Creek Near Inverness
|
6cfs |
Buckhorn Creek Nr Corinth
|
49cfs |
Deep River At Moncure
|
175cfs |
Rockfish Creek At Raeford
|
74cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Smith Lake Dam