Smith Creek Dam
Key Takeaway
Smith Creek Dam is classified as high hazard in Nevada. It was completed in 1938 and is 88 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. 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 | 54 ft (taller than 83.3% in NV) |
| Dam Length | 836 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 800 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 30 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1938 (88 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1943 |
| NID ID | NV00100 |
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
SMITH CREEK RANCH COMPANY
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Smith Creek Dam?
Smith Creek 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 Smith Creek Dam?
Smith Creek Dam is owned by SMITH CREEK RANCH COMPANY (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Smith Creek Dam built?
Smith Creek Dam was completed in 1938, making it 88 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 Smith Creek Dam?
Smith Creek Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation, 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 Smith Creek Dam?
Smith Creek Dam has a dam height of 54 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 Smith Creek Dam last inspected?
Smith Creek Dam was last inspected on August 11, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.