Clarence Smith Dam
Key Takeaway
Clarence Smith Dam is classified as high hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1958 and is 68 years old. Its primary use is fire protection. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 25 ft (taller than 57.4% in SD) |
| Dam Length | 492 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 81 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 29 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 6 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,403 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1958 (68 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1989 |
| NID ID | SD00788 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
DOUG YOUNG
Private
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Low Hazard 21 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Clarence Smith Dam?
Clarence Smith Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Clarence Smith Dam?
Clarence Smith Dam is owned by DOUG YOUNG (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Clarence Smith Dam built?
Clarence Smith Dam was completed in 1958, making it 68 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Clarence Smith Dam?
Clarence Smith Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Clarence Smith Dam?
Clarence Smith Dam has a dam height of 25 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Clarence Smith Dam last inspected?
Clarence Smith Dam was last inspected on November 1, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.