Smiths Dam

trib. Sandy Branch· Albemarle, Virginia· Earth· 28 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Smiths 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 28 ft (taller than 60.8% in VA)
Dam Length450 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage284 acre-ft
Normal Storage72 acre-ft
Drainage Area0 sq mi
NID IDVA003131

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: May 16, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Department of Conservation and Recreation

Ownership

Sandy Branch Lot Owners

Private

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Deer Lake Dam

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Smiths Dam?

Smiths 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 Smiths Dam?

Smiths Dam is owned by Sandy Branch Lot Owners (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Smiths Dam?

Smiths 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 Smiths Dam?

Smiths Dam has a dam height of 28 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 Smiths Dam last inspected?

Smiths Dam was last inspected on May 16, 2022. 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.