Smith Reservoir
Key Takeaway
Smith Reservoir is classified as high hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1925 and is 101 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 34 ft (taller than 70.6% in PA) |
| Dam Length | 365 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 155 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 74 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 10 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1925 (101 years old) |
| NID ID | PA00017 |
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
BOROUGH OF NORTH EAST
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Grahamville Reservoir
Erie, PA
High Hazard 29 ftEaton Reservoir
Erie, PA
High Hazard 22 ftFindley Lake Dam
Chautauqua, NY
Low Hazard 10 ftWilliams
Erie, PA
Significant Hazard 10 ftRipley Reservoir Dam
Chautauqua, NY
Significant Hazard 46 ftHoag Pond Dam
Chautauqua, NY
Low Hazard 21 ftSiegel Marsh
Erie, PA
Significant Hazard 12 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Smith Reservoir?
Smith Reservoir 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 Reservoir?
Smith Reservoir is owned by BOROUGH OF NORTH EAST (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Smith Reservoir built?
Smith Reservoir was completed in 1925, making it 101 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 Reservoir?
Smith Reservoir serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Smith Reservoir?
Smith Reservoir has a dam height of 34 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 Reservoir last inspected?
Smith Reservoir was last inspected on October 12, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.