Smith Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Smith Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Indiana. It was completed in 1976 and is 50 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 30 ft (taller than 62.3% in IN) |
| Dam Length | 400 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 167 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 88 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 19 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 487 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1976 (50 years old) |
| NID ID | IN00578 |
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
ILIFF SMITH TRUST LYLE W. SMITH TRUSTEE
Private
Nearby Dams
Little Fox Lake Dam
Brown, IN
Significant Hazard 40 ftWoodland Lake
Brown, IN
Low Hazard 32 ftCrestview Lake Dam
Brown, IN
Low Hazard 26 ftSpeedway Conservation Club Dam
Brown, IN
High Hazard 26 ftWildcraft Lower Lake Dam
Brown, IN
High Hazard 31 ftWildcraft Upper Lake Dam
Brown, IN
Significant Hazard 20 ftJarrett Dam
Brown, IN
Low Hazard 32 ftCrainsboro Lake Dam
Brown, IN
Low Hazard 31 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Smith Lake Dam?
Smith Lake 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 Smith Lake Dam?
Smith Lake Dam is owned by ILIFF SMITH TRUST LYLE W. SMITH TRUSTEE (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Smith Lake Dam built?
Smith Lake Dam was completed in 1976, making it 50 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 Lake Dam?
Smith Lake 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 Smith Lake Dam?
Smith Lake Dam has a dam height of 30 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 Lake Dam last inspected?
Smith Lake Dam was last inspected on December 13, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.