Lake Smith Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Smith Dam is classified as significant hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1965 and is 61 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 21 ft (taller than 8.8% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 570 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 463 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 245 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 53 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1965 (61 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1989 |
| NID ID | IA00570 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Kossuth County Conservation Board
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Smith Dam?
Lake Smith Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Lake Smith Dam?
Lake Smith Dam is owned by Kossuth County Conservation Board (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Smith Dam built?
Lake Smith Dam was completed in 1965, making it 61 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 Lake Smith Dam?
Lake Smith Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lake Smith Dam?
Lake Smith Dam has a dam height of 21 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 Lake Smith Dam last inspected?
Lake Smith Dam was last inspected on July 13, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.