Smith Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Smith Lake Dam, located in Grimes, Texas, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 2010 with a primary purpose of "Other." Designed by VELVIN & WEEKS, the dam stands at a height of 33 feet and has a hydraulic height of 33 feet, with a structural height of 50.7 feet.
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Summary
It is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
The dam has a storage capacity of 2,127 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 2,688 cubic feet per second. It features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 205 feet and two uncontrolled outlet gates. The hazard potential of the dam is currently listed as "Not Available," with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. While the condition assessment is not rated, the dam is regularly inspected to ensure its safety and compliance with regulatory standards.
Overall, Smith Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area, serving as a key structure in regulating the flow of a tributary of Sulphur Creek. With its strategic location and design, the dam contributes to the conservation and control of water resources, highlighting the importance of proper infrastructure for mitigating the impact of climate change on water systems.
Year Completed |
2010 |
Dam Length |
1310 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY OF SULPHUR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
33 |
Nid Storage |
2127 |
Structural Height |
50.7 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
51 |
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 Lake Dam