A. G. Smith Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

A.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

G. Smith Dam in Sylva, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure situated on Scotts Creek-Tr, primarily designed for recreation. This earth dam stands at a structural height of 18 feet, with a significant hazard potential, although its condition assessment is currently not rated. While the dam has not been inspected since August 1991, it is still in operation and meets the state's inspection requirements.

Despite not being regulated or permitted by the state, A. G. Smith Dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities and water enthusiasts in the area. The dam's location in Jackson County offers a picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy various recreational opportunities. While the dam lacks specific data on storage capacity and discharge, its presence adds value to the local ecosystem and community.

With its historical significance and potential for future risk management measures, A. G. Smith Dam remains an integral part of the landscape in North Carolina. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to explore the region, this dam stands as a reminder of the importance of balancing recreational use with safety and environmental conservation efforts.

River Or Stream

Scotts Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.