Smith Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Smith Dam, located in High Point, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The dam, situated on the West Fork Deep River-Tr, has a hydraulic height of 12.5 feet and a structural height of 15.5 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 10 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 12 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 2 acres and stands at a length of 208 feet. Despite its fair condition assessment as of December 2020, the dam poses a high hazard potential, emphasizing the need for regular inspections and maintenance.
The North Carolina Dam Safety Program, under the supervision of NCDEQ and DEMLR, regulates and inspects Smith Dam to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with safety standards. The dam has been designated as state-regulated and falls under the jurisdiction of the NC state regulatory agency. In case of emergencies, an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) may be prepared, although details regarding its status and compliance with guidelines are currently unavailable. With a hazard potential classified as high, the importance of effective risk management measures and regular assessments cannot be overstated.
As a vital component of the water resource infrastructure in Guilford County, Smith Dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities while also posing potential risks due to its high hazard potential. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the complexities involved in managing and maintaining such structures to ensure the safety of both the dam and the surrounding communities. The ongoing regulatory oversight and inspection processes aim to mitigate risks and safeguard the structural integrity of Smith Dam for the benefit of all stakeholders involved.
Dam Length |
208 |
River Or Stream |
West Fork Deep River-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
12.5 |
Nid Storage |
12 |
Structural Height |
15.5 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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 Dam
Johnson Street Park
Deep River Community Park
Oak Hollow Park
Festival Park
High Point Athletic Center