Smith River Dam

SMITH RIVER· Henry, Virginia· Gravity· 38 ft tall

High Hazard Hydroelectric Local Government

Key Takeaway

Smith River Dam is classified as high hazard in Virginia. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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	38 ft (taller than 84.6% in VA)
Dam Length	538 ft
Dam Type	Gravity
Max Storage	2.6K acre-ft
Normal Storage	800 acre-ft

Surface Area	56 acres
Drainage Area	379 sq mi
NID ID	VA089013

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes

Last Inspection: August 29, 2014

State Regulated: Yes

Regulatory Agency: Department of Conservation and Recreation

Ownership

City of Martinsville Electric Dept

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Cox Dam

Henry, VA

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Mount Bethel Church Dam

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Lanier Dam

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Hereford Dam

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Hunt Country Farms Dam

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High Hazard 42 ft

Bell Dam

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Patriot Centre Sw Pond #2

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High Hazard 27 ft

Dodson Dam

Henry, VA

Unknown 26 ft

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Smith River Dam?

Smith River 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 River Dam?

Smith River Dam is owned by City of Martinsville Electric Dept (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Smith River Dam?

Smith River Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Smith River Dam?

Smith River Dam has a dam height of 38 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 River Dam last inspected?

Smith River Dam was last inspected on August 29, 2014. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.