Smith Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Fox Mountain Lake Dam Mccurdy Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Smith Pond Dam, located in Cooleemee, North Carolina, is a private earth dam primarily used for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
With a hydraulic height of 15 feet and a structural height of 18 feet, this dam stands at 384 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 36 acre-feet. The dam is situated along the Snow Creek-Tr river and is under the jurisdiction of the Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.
Despite being privately owned and not state-regulated, Smith Pond Dam poses a significant hazard potential and has been assessed to be in fair condition as of December 2018. While the dam has not undergone any recent modifications, it is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. In the event of an emergency, the dam lacks an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and updated emergency contacts, raising concerns about its preparedness for potential risks.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate may find Smith Pond Dam intriguing due to its historical significance in supporting irrigation and recreational activities in the area. Its location in Alexander County adds to the charm, offering a glimpse into the intersection of human engineering and natural landscapes. With a focus on safety and risk management measures, there remains room for improvement in ensuring the long-term sustainability and resilience of this vital water resource infrastructure.
Dam Length |
384 |
River Or Stream |
Snow Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
36 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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 Pond Dam