Smith Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Smith Dam, located in Augusta, Virginia, along the TR-Meadow Run river, is a crucial water resource infrastructure managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 67 acre-feet, primarily intended for water supply purposes. With a drainage area of 2.3 square miles, the dam plays a vital role in regulating water flow and ensuring a stable water supply for the region.
Although the hazard potential of Smith Dam is currently listed as undetermined and its condition is not rated, the dam is under state regulation, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures are yet to be determined, indicating a need for further evaluation and preparation for potential emergencies. Despite these uncertainties, Smith Dam remains a key component of water supply infrastructure in the region, emphasizing the importance of its maintenance and monitoring for the safety and security of surrounding communities.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor and advocate for sustainable water management practices, Smith Dam serves as a focal point for ongoing discussions on dam safety, emergency preparedness, and risk assessment. With its location in the Norfolk District and under state jurisdiction, the dam's role in water supply and recreation highlights the interconnectedness of infrastructure, environmental conservation, and community resilience. As efforts to assess and address the dam's condition and potential risks progress, Smith Dam stands as a symbol of the ongoing challenges and opportunities in managing water resources in a changing climate.
Dam Length |
425 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MEADOW RUN |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
2.3 |
Nid Storage |
67 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South River Near Dooms
|
64cfs |
South River Near Waynesboro
|
34cfs |
South River At Harriston
|
85cfs |
Middle River Near Grottoes
|
101cfs |
North River Near Burketown
|
80cfs |
S F Shenandoah River Near Lynnwood
|
278cfs |
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.
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