Spires Dam Reservoir Report

Nearby: Wdf4 Wf1

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Spires Dam, located in Walton County, Florida, was completed in 1952 with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

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
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.