Lake Ryan Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Ryan Dam, located in Clay County, Florida, is a private dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1969, this earth dam stands at 29 feet high and spans 250 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 81 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR-Black Creek river and is under state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite its scenic location and recreational appeal, the dam is rated as having a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment as of September 2020.

The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in August 2021, indicating ongoing efforts to ensure public safety in the event of a catastrophic failure. With uncontrolled outlet gates and a surface area of 6 acres, the dam poses significant risks that should be addressed through proper risk management measures. Located within the jurisdiction of the Jacksonville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Lake Ryan Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring critical infrastructure in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water resource challenges.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate change can appreciate Lake Ryan Dam as a case study in the intersection of recreational development, environmental stewardship, and emergency preparedness. As one of the many dams across the country facing challenges related to aging infrastructure and heightened hazard potential, Lake Ryan Dam serves as a focal point for discussions on sustainable water management practices and the need for proactive risk assessment and mitigation strategies in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

TR-BLACK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

29

Nid Storage

81

Structural Height

29

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

29
       
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.