Smith Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Smith Dam, located in Patrick, Virginia, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

With a primary purpose of recreation, this earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and spans a length of 380 feet, providing a storage capacity of 59 acre-feet. While its hazard potential is currently undetermined and its condition unrated, the dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement by state authorities, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulatory standards.

Situated within the jurisdiction of the Huntington District, Smith Dam offers a surface area of 3.8 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy various recreational activities. Despite lacking detailed information on its construction date and modifications, the dam's maximum storage capacity of 59 acre-feet and normal storage of 47 acre-feet make it a valuable water resource in the region. While the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are currently unspecified, its compliance with state permitting and inspection requirements underscores its commitment to safety and environmental stewardship.

Managed by a private entity, Smith Dam provides a picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate the intersection of human infrastructure with natural landscapes. With its location in Virginia and oversight by state regulatory agencies, the dam serves as a valuable asset for both recreational enjoyment and water management in the region. Despite its hazard potential being undetermined, the dam's structural integrity and storage capacity make it a key feature in the local landscape, inviting visitors to explore and appreciate its role in sustaining the surrounding ecosystem.

Dam Length

380

Dam Height

35

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.8

Hydraulic Height

35

Nid Storage

59

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

35
       
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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.