Olsen Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Olsen Dam, also known as Lake Suzanne, is a privately owned recreational water resource located in Escambia, Florida.


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Summary

Built in 1972 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 12 feet high and spans 535 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 59 acre-feet and a surface area of 5 acres, Olsen Dam serves as a fish and wildlife pond while also providing opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Managed by the NWFWMD, Olsen Dam has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its overall condition. Despite its last inspection dating back to 1994, this earth dam remains a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. The dam is situated along the TR-Eleven Mile Creek, contributing to the overall drainage area of 0.43 square miles and offering a scenic backdrop for those interested in water resource and climate conservation.

As a part of the Mobile District, Olsen Dam is subject to state regulations and permitting requirements, ensuring its safety and compliance with environmental standards. While it may not have a spillway or outlet gates, the dam's design and construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service reflect a commitment to sustainable water management. With its picturesque location and recreational offerings, Olsen Dam serves as a valuable asset for the community and a testament to the importance of preserving water resources in the face of climate change.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

535

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TR-ELEVEN MILE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Drainage Area

0.43

Nid Storage

59

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.