John Pace Dam #1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: John Pace Dam #3 John Pace Dam #2
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
John Pace Dam #1, located in Chumuckla, Florida, is a privately owned earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1963 by the USDA NRCS, this dam on Bell Creek stands at a height of 35 feet and has a length of 830 feet, creating a surface area of 10 acres and a storage capacity of 289 acre-feet. The dam serves as a fish and wildlife pond while also providing recreational opportunities for visitors.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, John Pace Dam #1 is currently not rated for its condition. While last inspected in 1994, the dam is regulated by the state of Florida and undergoes regular permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes. The spillway, with a width of 50 feet, is uncontrolled, and the dam has an uncontrolled outlet gate. Despite not having an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, the dam meets state guidelines and is equipped with emergency contacts should the need arise.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, John Pace Dam #1 offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human-made structures and natural ecosystems. This dam, with its stone core and soil foundation, plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area while also providing a habitat for fish and wildlife. As efforts continue to assess and manage the risks associated with the dam, its presence highlights the importance of responsible dam construction and maintenance practices in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
830 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
BELL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Drainage Area |
0.56 |
Nid Storage |
289 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Escambia River Nr Molino
|
2230cfs |
Escambia River Near Century
|
3370cfs |
Perdido River At Barrineau Park
|
557cfs |
Big Coldwater Creek Nr Milton
|
399cfs |
Big Escambia Creek At Flomaton Al
|
515cfs |
Conecuh River At State Hwy 41 Near Brewton
|
1880cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
John Pace Dam #1
Keyser Landing Road, Jay