Smith Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kellam Dam Northampton Dam # 1
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Smith Dam, located in Northampton, Virginia, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
The dam, with a height of 10 feet and a length of 485 feet, has a storage capacity of 114 acre-feet and is situated on the TR-THE GULF river or stream. While the dam is regulated by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation and undergoes regular inspections, its hazard potential and condition assessment are currently labeled as "Undetermined" and "Not Rated," respectively.
Despite lacking specific details on its completion date and structural volume, Smith Dam remains a significant feature in the region for its role in supporting agricultural irrigation and recreation activities. The dam's ownership by a private entity adds an interesting twist to its management and maintenance, as it operates within state jurisdiction and regulatory oversight. With its strategic location and modest storage capacity, the dam presents opportunities for further study and potential enhancements to its risk management measures to ensure the safety and sustainability of its operations in the face of changing climate conditions.
Dam Length |
485 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
TR-THE GULF |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Nid Storage |
114 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
10 |
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 Dam