Richard Smith Dam
Key Takeaway
Richard Smith Dam is classified as low hazard in Maryland. It was completed in 1970 and is 56 years old.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 9 ft (taller than 2.9% in MD) |
| Dam Length | 345 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 56 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 16 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 7 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,425 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1970 (56 years old) |
| NID ID | MD00357 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Floyd Price Jr.
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Richard Smith Dam?
Richard Smith Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Richard Smith Dam?
Richard Smith Dam is owned by Floyd Price Jr. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Richard Smith Dam built?
Richard Smith Dam was completed in 1970, making it 56 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
How tall is Richard Smith Dam?
Richard Smith Dam has a dam height of 9 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 Richard Smith Dam last inspected?
Richard Smith Dam was last inspected on November 20, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.