Smith Reservoir Report
Nearby: Big Hill Pond Lake Cedar Creek
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Smith is a privately owned recreational dam located in McNairy, Tennessee, with a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet.
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Summary
The dam, primarily used for recreation, is an earth structure standing at 18 feet tall and spanning 500 feet in length. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is classified as having a moderate risk level (3) and has not been rated for its current condition.
The dam, managed by the Tennessee state agency, falls under the jurisdiction of the Memphis District. With no state regulation, permitting, or inspection in place, Smith presents an interesting case for water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and lack of outlet gates add to its unique characteristics, making it a focal point for further study and potential risk management measures.
Given its location and risk assessment, Smith serves as an intriguing subject for those interested in water resource management and climate resilience. With its moderate risk level and limited oversight, there is a need for increased attention to ensure the safety and sustainability of this recreational structure in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Dam Length |
500 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Drainage Area |
0.78 |
Nid Storage |
90 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Hatchie River Near Walnut
|
105cfs |
Hatchie River At Bolivar
|
577cfs |
Horse Creek Near Savannah
|
63cfs |
Wolf River At Lagrange
|
170cfs |
Bear Creek At Bishop
|
4330cfs |
Twentymile Creek Nr Guntown
|
7cfs |
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