Charles Smith Dam, located in Fayetteville, North Carolina, stands as a pivotal structure along the Cape Fear River-Tr, serving primarily for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1954, this earthen dam reaches a hydraulic height of 17.8 feet and a structural height of 19.4 feet, with a length of 210 feet. Despite its modest size, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 8 million acre-feet, making it a key component in water resource management within the region.
Maintained by private ownership, Charles Smith Dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. With a hazard potential rated as high, the dam's condition is assessed as fair, with the last inspection conducted in April 2019. The dam is equipped with emergency action plans and updated contact information, ensuring that it meets safety guidelines and is prepared for any potential risks or emergencies that may arise.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Charles Smith Dam serves as a fascinating case study in the intersection of water management, recreational use, and regulatory oversight. Its presence along the Cape Fear River-Tr not only provides valuable storage capacity but also highlights the importance of maintaining infrastructure integrity and preparedness in the face of potential hazards. As a key player in the region's water infrastructure, Charles Smith Dam stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance human needs with environmental stewardship in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
210 |
River Or Stream |
Cape Fear River-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Hydraulic Height |
17.8 |
Nid Storage |
8 |
Structural Height |
19.4 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
19 |
Little River At Manchester
|
263cfs |
Flat Creek Near Inverness
|
7cfs |
Cape Fear R At Wilm O Huske Lock Nr Tarheel
|
1860cfs |
Cape Fear River At Lillington
|
711cfs |
Rockfish Creek At Raeford
|
104cfs |
Big Swamp Nr Tarheel
|
125cfs |