Boyd Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 26, 2025

Boyd Dam, located in Escambia, Florida, along the Bellshead Branch river, was completed in 1940 and serves multiple purposes including irrigation and recreation.


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Summary

With a height of 11 feet and a length of 320 feet, this earth dam has a maximum storage capacity of 64 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 48 acre-feet. The dam is owned privately and is regulated by the state of Florida, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement all carried out by state agencies.

Despite its low hazard potential, Boyd Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level, with a risk assessment rating of 3. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, and has not been inspected since May 1994. While the dam is not currently rated for its condition, the risk management measures and emergency preparedness protocols for Boyd Dam are not specified in the available data. Additionally, there is no information regarding the presence of an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) or its compliance with guidelines.

Overall, Boyd Dam is a significant structure in the region, providing essential water resources for irrigation and offering recreational opportunities for visitors. As a privately owned dam with state regulation, it is crucial for ongoing monitoring and assessment of its condition to ensure public safety and mitigate any potential risks associated with its operation. Climate and water resource enthusiasts may find Boyd Dam an intriguing subject for further study on dam management and emergency preparedness in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

320

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

BELLSHEAD BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

64

Structural Height

11

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.