Summary
The dam, primarily made of earth with a stone core and soil foundation, stands at a height of 18 feet and stretches 240 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 312 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.1 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and minimizing flood impacts in the region.
Despite being classified as low hazard potential, Suwannee Lake Dam is regulated by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) and undergoes regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 40 feet and is equipped with outlet gates for water release. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the risk assessment for the dam is moderate, highlighting the importance of continued monitoring and risk management measures to ensure the safety and functionality of this essential infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions and water resource challenges.
Overall, Suwannee Lake Dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of local government and state agencies in safeguarding communities against flooding events. With its strategic location and design, the dam serves as a critical asset in water resource management and climate resilience in Suwannee, Florida. As enthusiasts in water resources and climate, it is essential to recognize and appreciate the significance of such infrastructure in mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events and preserving the ecological balance of the surrounding environment.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
240 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
SUWANNEE LAKE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17 |
Drainage Area |
1.1 |
Nid Storage |
312 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Suwannee River At Suwannee Springs Fla
|
279cfs |
Suwannee River At White Springs
|
157cfs |
Suwannee River At Ellaville
|
1400cfs |
Withlacoochee River Nr Lee
|
653cfs |
Suwannee River At Dowling Park
|
1490cfs |
Suwannee River At Luraville
|
1610cfs |
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.
Suwannee Lake Dam