Managed by a private owner, this earth dam stands at 12 feet tall and spans 250 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 158 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Big Head Branch, a tributary to the Choctawhatchee River, and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and fish and wildlife habitat enhancement.
Constructed by the USDA NRCS, Spires Dam is regulated by the Northwest Florida Water Management District and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. With a low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, but it continues to provide recreational opportunities for visitors in the area. Despite its age, the dam remains a vital component of the local ecosystem, supporting a surface area of 13 acres and a drainage area of 1.25 square miles.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Spires Dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of human infrastructure and natural landscapes. As a recreational site with historical significance, the dam showcases the importance of sustainable water management practices and the ongoing efforts to balance the needs of both humans and wildlife in the face of climate change. Whether for fishing, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the outdoors, Spires Dam stands as a testament to the enduring relationship between water resources and community well-being.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
BIG HEAD BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Drainage Area |
1.25 |
Nid Storage |
158 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
12 |
Choctawhatchee River Nr Bruce
|
2380cfs |
Bruce Creek At Sh 81 Nr Redbay
|
23cfs |
Holmes Creek At Vernon
|
346cfs |
Alaqua Creek Near Pleasant Ridge
|
48cfs |
Choctawhatchee River At Caryville
|
2060cfs |
Econfina Creek Near Bennett
|
508cfs |