Sumter Co. Water Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Sumter County, Florida, the Sumter Co.


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Summary

Water, also known as Gant Lake Dam, is a vital water resource managed by the local government for irrigation purposes. Built in 1969 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a storage capacity of 528 acre-feet. Situated along the Withlacoochee River in Webster, this structure serves various functions including fire protection, stock watering, flood risk reduction, and recreation.

With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is not rated, Sumter Co. Water has not been inspected since July 1994. The dam's spillway width is 30 feet, and it covers a surface area of 44 acres with a drainage area of 19.45 square miles. While the dam is primarily made of stone with a soil foundation, its purpose extends beyond irrigation to support fish and wildlife habitats, as well as small fish ponds. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water management and conservation in the region.

As a key infrastructure managed by the local government, Sumter Co. Water serves as a vital link in the water supply chain, ensuring sustainable water resources for the community. With its strategic location and multi-faceted purposes, this dam remains a cornerstone of water management efforts in Sumter County, contributing to the overall resilience of the region's water systems. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and upkeep of structures like Sumter Co. Water will be essential in safeguarding against future water challenges and ensuring a reliable water supply for generations to come.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

120

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

WITHLACOCHEE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

44

Drainage Area

19.45

Nid Storage

528

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.