Smiley - Henry Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Smiley - Henry is a privately owned dam located in Culpeper, Virginia, along the TR-Thorton River.


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Summary

This earth dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation, with a height of 29 feet and a length of 350 feet. With a storage capacity of 81 acre-feet, it plays a crucial role in providing water for agricultural activities in the region.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Smiley - Henry is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state agency to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Although its hazard potential is currently undetermined and its condition is not rated, the dam serves as a vital water resource infrastructure for the local community. Its location within the Baltimore District and its association with the TR-Thorton River make it a key component in the water management system of the area.

While details about its construction year, modifications, and maintenance history are not available, Smiley - Henry remains an essential structure for water resource management in the region. With its capacity to store water for irrigation purposes and its role in supporting agriculture, this dam contributes to the sustainability and resilience of the local water supply system. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Smiley - Henry is crucial for appreciating the interconnectedness of water management and environmental stewardship.

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

TR-Thorton River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

29

Nid Storage

81

Structural Height

29

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

29
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.