Smithfield Lake Dam

Mount Holly Creek/Pagan River - Warren Creek VAHU6 JL39· Isle of Wight, Virginia· Earth· 19 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Smithfield Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Virginia. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 19 ft (taller than 24.5% in VA)
Dam Length300 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage539 acre-ft
Normal Storage196 acre-ft
Surface Area26 acres
Drainage Area2 sq mi
Max Discharge571 cfs
NID IDVA093014

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: September 28, 2021
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Department of Conservation and Recreation

Ownership

Town of Smithfield

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Smithfield Lake Dam?

Smithfield 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 Smithfield Lake Dam?

Smithfield Lake Dam is owned by Town of Smithfield (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Smithfield Lake Dam?

Smithfield 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 Smithfield Lake Dam?

Smithfield Lake Dam has a dam height of 19 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 Smithfield Lake Dam last inspected?

Smithfield Lake Dam was last inspected on September 28, 2021. 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.