Santa Fe River Ranch Dam

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The Santa Fe River Ranch Dam, located in Alachua County, Florida, was completed in 1963 and serves as a private structure regulated by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. This earth dam stands at a height of 11 feet and has a length of 490 feet, with a primary purpose of recreation. With a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet and a surface area of 244 acres, the dam is designed to control the flow of Reeves Branch, a tributary of the Santa Fe River. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition has not been rated, and no emergency action plan has been prepared.

Managed by private owners, the Santa Fe River Ranch Dam is situated in a picturesque setting near High Springs, Florida, where it provides opportunities for recreational activities such as fishing and boating. The dam's location in S2 T7S R18E offers visitors a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of the surrounding area while enjoying the reservoir created by the structure. While the dam has not undergone recent inspections or assessments, its low hazard potential indicates a relatively low risk to downstream communities in case of a failure.

As a vital component of the local water resource management system, the Santa Fe River Ranch Dam contributes to the overall water supply and recreational opportunities in the region. While the dam's condition assessment is pending, its presence underscores the importance of maintaining and monitoring these structures to ensure public safety and environmental sustainability. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the role of the Santa Fe River Ranch Dam in balancing water control and recreational use in the beautiful landscape of Alachua County, Florida.