John Smith Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Anderson Dam Dyer-Walker Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
John Smith Lake Dam, located in Rockingham, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1962 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 20 feet and a structural height of 22.9 feet, with a length of 234 feet. The dam impounds Matrimony Creek, creating a surface area of 6.4 acres and providing a normal storage capacity of 51 acre-feet.
With a high hazard potential and fair condition assessment, John Smith Lake Dam is regulated by the NC Department of Environmental Quality Dam Safety Program. The dam has a drainage area of 377 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 248 cubic feet per second. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway type is classified as uncontrolled, with an associated risk assessment of moderate (3). The dam is subject to biennial inspections, with the last assessment conducted in March 2020.
Overall, John Smith Lake Dam serves as a vital recreational resource in the Eden area, offering opportunities for water-based activities and enjoyment for the surrounding community. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of proper management and maintenance of water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
234 |
River Or Stream |
Matrimony Cr.-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
377 |
Nid Storage |
58 |
Structural Height |
22.9 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Smith River At Eden
|
222cfs |
Dan River Near Wentworth
|
559cfs |
Mayo River Near Price
|
132cfs |
North Mayo River Near Spencer
|
61cfs |
Smith River At Martinsville
|
149cfs |
Dan R At Pine Hall
|
275cfs |
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.
John Smith Lake Dam