Summary
Built in 1960 by Ducks Unlimited, this Earth dam on Tributary Medicine Creek serves multiple purposes, including flood control and water storage. With a height of 20 feet and a capacity of 229 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in mitigating the risk of flooding and ensuring a stable water supply for the surrounding area.
Owned and regulated by private entities, Smith Dam boasts a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 100 feet, allows for the safe release of excess water during times of high flow. Despite its age, Smith Dam remains in good condition and has not been rated for structural integrity or emergency preparedness. While the dam does not have outlet gates, it continues to effectively serve its intended purposes while meeting state inspection and regulatory requirements.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, the importance of well-maintained dams like Smith Dam cannot be overstated. With a focus on sustainable water management and risk reduction, Smith Dam exemplifies the vital role that infrastructure plays in adapting to a changing climate while safeguarding communities and ecosystems. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, we must continue to support and invest in projects like Smith Dam to ensure a resilient and sustainable future for all.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
1500 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. MEDICINE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
229 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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