Smith Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mclamb Lagoon Dam Best Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Smith Lake Dam, located in Clear Run, North Carolina, along Buckhorn Creek, was completed in 1954 and serves primarily for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
Owned privately, the dam stands at a height of 18 feet with a hydraulic height of 13 feet and a length of 630 feet. With a storage capacity of 108 acre-feet and a surface area of 12 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Smith Lake Dam is in fair condition as of its last inspection in July 2013. The dam has not been modified in recent years and is subject to regular inspections for maintenance and safety purposes. With a drainage area of 9600 acres and a maximum discharge of 10 cubic feet per second, the dam contributes to the overall hydrological system of the area.
While not regulated by the state, Smith Lake Dam is inspected periodically to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. Its role in providing irrigation water and supporting recreational activities underscores its importance in the local community. As a key infrastructure for water resource management, Smith Lake Dam continues to play a vital role in the region's climate resilience and sustainability efforts.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
630 |
River Or Stream |
Buckhorn Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Drainage Area |
9600 |
Nid Storage |
108 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black River Near Tomahawk
|
668cfs |
Northeast Cape Fear River Near Chinquapin
|
549cfs |
Cape Fear R At Wilm O Huske Lock Nr Tarheel
|
1860cfs |
Big Swamp Nr Tarheel
|
125cfs |
Cape Fear R At Lock #1 Nr Kelly
|
2420cfs |
Neuse River Near Goldsboro
|
1460cfs |
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