Upper Smith Dam
Key Takeaway
Upper Smith Dam is classified as high hazard in West Virginia. It was completed in 1955 and is 71 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 48 ft (taller than 53.3% in WV) |
| Dam Length | 450 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 71 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 57 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 4 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1955 (71 years old) |
| NID ID | WV10705 |
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
HENRY J. OLDAKER
Private
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Significant HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Upper Smith Dam?
Upper Smith 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 Upper Smith Dam?
Upper Smith Dam is owned by HENRY J. OLDAKER (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Upper Smith Dam built?
Upper Smith Dam was completed in 1955, making it 71 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 Upper Smith Dam?
Upper Smith 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 Upper Smith Dam?
Upper Smith Dam has a dam height of 48 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 Upper Smith Dam last inspected?
Upper Smith Dam was last inspected on March 12, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.