Woodard-Smith Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Woodard-Smith Dam, located in Wake County, North Carolina, is a private dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a structural height of 6 feet, this earth dam holds a storage capacity of 6 acre-feet and is situated along the Walnut Creek-Tr river/stream. Despite being non-state regulated, the dam is subject to state inspections to ensure its safety and integrity.

With a significant hazard potential, Woodard-Smith Dam was last inspected in March 2006 and was deemed to be in "Not Rated" condition at that time. The dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared, and there is limited information available regarding its risk assessment and management measures. While it does not fall under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the dam remains an important recreational feature in the area, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts.

As a focal point for outdoor activities and water-based recreation, Woodard-Smith Dam serves as a reminder of the intricate balance between human-made structures and natural water systems. With its unique design and location, the dam provides opportunities for enjoyment and relaxation while also requiring careful monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of both visitors and the surrounding environment. For those passionate about water resources and climate issues, Woodard-Smith Dam offers a fascinating case study in the intersection of human intervention and natural ecosystems.

River Or Stream

Walnut Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

6

Structural Height

6

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

6
       
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.