Smith Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Smith is a state-regulated dam located in Henry, Tennessee, specifically in the city of Meadow Mead.


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Summary

This Earth type dam, completed in 1936, has a hydraulic height of 14.4 feet and a structural height of 20.7 feet, with a total dam length of 450 feet. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 37 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 85 acre-feet, serving the purpose of water resource management for the surrounding area.

Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Smith dam has been assessed to have a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in July 2019. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, this dam plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of the Threemile Branch river/stream. Despite not having any associated structures or federal agency involvement, Smith dam continues to be a key component in the water infrastructure of the region.

With its uncontrolled spillway type and proximity to Memphis District, Smith dam remains a notable feature in the local landscape. While there are no emergency action plans prepared or inundation maps available for this dam, its consistent state inspections and enforcement ensure its reliability in mitigating flood risks and maintaining water resources for the community. Smith dam stands as a testament to Tennessee's commitment to water resource management and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

450

River Or Stream

THREEMILE BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.4

Hydraulic Height

14.4

Drainage Area

0.23

Nid Storage

85

Structural Height

20.7

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

21
       
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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.