Lake Smith Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Lake Smith Dam in Norfolk, Virginia, serves as a vital water supply source for the surrounding area, with a primary purpose of providing water for both recreational activities and essential consumption.
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Summary
The dam, constructed primarily of earth and buttress materials, stands at a height of 15.35 feet and stretches 800 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 1385 acre-feet and a surface area of 193 acres, the dam plays a critical role in managing water resources in the region.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Lake Smith Dam is subject to regular inspections and regulatory oversight to ensure its safe operation. Despite its fair condition assessment, the dam poses a high hazard potential, prompting the need for ongoing risk assessment and management measures. While the dam has an uncontrolled spillway type, its emergency action plan and inundation maps are in need of updates, highlighting the importance of maintaining readiness for potential emergencies.
Located in close proximity to the Little Creek Reservoir and the Lower Chesapeake Bay, Lake Smith Dam is a key component of the water infrastructure in the area. With its strategic location and critical role in water supply and recreational activities, the dam serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in understanding the complexities of managing water resources in a changing climate.
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
15.35 |
River Or Stream |
Direct to Little Creek Reservoir - VAHU6 CB26 Lower Chesapeake Bay - Little Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
193 |
Drainage Area |
5.89 |
Nid Storage |
1385 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pasquotank River Near South Mills
|
51cfs |
Blackwater River Near Dendron
|
129cfs |
Blackwater River Near Franklin
|
260cfs |
Nottoway River Near Sebrell
|
885cfs |
Dragon Swamp At Mascot
|
72cfs |
Potecasi Creek Near Union
|
12cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Little Creek RV Military
|
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First Landing State Park
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Cape Henry RV Military
|
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Ocean Pines RV Military - Oceana NAS
|
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The Colonies Military
|
Lake Smith Dam
Lake Whitehurst Boat Ramp