Joseph Smith Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Joseph Smith Dam, located in Rockingham, North Carolina, on Matrimony Creek-Tr, is a private Earth-type dam primarily used for recreation.
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Summary
With a hydraulic height of 27.3 feet and a structural height of 30 feet, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 44 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 37 acre-feet. The dam is 186 feet long and covers a surface area of 3.1 acres, serving as a popular spot for outdoor activities in the city of Eden.
Despite being privately owned, Joseph Smith Dam is subject to state inspections to ensure its safety and integrity. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, with the last inspection conducted in November 2020. While the dam does not have a designated Emergency Action Plan (EAP) or inundation maps prepared, it meets regulatory guidelines and poses minimal risk to surrounding areas.
With its picturesque location along Matrimony Creek-Tr, Joseph Smith Dam offers a serene setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy recreational activities. As a key feature in the local landscape, the dam provides a valuable source of water storage and outdoor leisure opportunities for residents and visitors alike in the Rockingham County area.
Dam Length |
186 |
River Or Stream |
Matrimony Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
27.3 |
Drainage Area |
21 |
Nid Storage |
44 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Smith River At Eden
|
222cfs |
Dan River Near Wentworth
|
559cfs |
Smith River At Martinsville
|
149cfs |
Mayo River Near Price
|
132cfs |
North Mayo River Near Spencer
|
61cfs |
Sandy River Near Danville
|
41cfs |
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.
Joseph Smith Dam