Lake Frances Dam, also known as Butler Dam No.
Wind
Humidity
2, is a privately owned structure located in Gadsden, Florida, near the city of Havana. Built in 1956 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with a storage capacity of 238 acre-feet and a surface area of 10 acres. The dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a spillway width of 150 feet, capable of handling a maximum discharge of 450 cubic feet per second.
The dam is regulated by the NWFWMD and undergoes regular state inspections, although its hazard potential is deemed significant. Despite being built over six decades ago, the condition assessment of Lake Frances Dam is currently not rated, and there is no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place as of the last recorded inspection in 1994. With its foundation resting on soil and core made of stone, the dam plays a crucial role in providing water for irrigation and supporting local wildlife in the area.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Frances Dam presents an intriguing case study of a historic structure that continues to fulfill its primary purpose despite aging infrastructure. As efforts to assess and manage the potential risks associated with the dam evolve, there is a growing need to prioritize safety measures and update emergency protocols to ensure the resilience of this vital water resource in the face of changing environmental conditions. The dam's location along the TR-OCHLOCKONEE VI LI river system adds to its significance, making it a focal point for conservation and sustainable water management initiatives in the region.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TR-OCHLOCKONEE VI LI |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Drainage Area |
1.87 |
Nid Storage |
238 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
24 |
Ochlockonee River Nr Havana
|
58cfs |
Ochlockonee River Nr Concord
|
71cfs |
Little River Nr Quincy
|
97cfs |
Little Attapulgus Creek At Attapulgus
|
5cfs |
Little River Nr Midway
|
91cfs |
Flint River At Bainbridge
|
4780cfs |