Henry H. Buckman Lock Reservoir Report

Nearby: Put08 Put07

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Henry H.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Buckman Lock, also known as the Cross Florida Barge Canal, is a state-owned structure located in Palatka, Florida. Completed in 1971, this lock serves the primary purpose of navigation along the St. Johns River-offstream, providing access for recreational activities and enhancing waterway transportation in the region. With a dam height of 54 feet and a storage capacity of 130,000 acre-feet, this earth dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

Situated within Putnam County, Florida, the Henry H. Buckman Lock is regulated by the state and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. Despite its low hazard potential, this lock contributes significantly to the overall water management system in the region, serving as a vital component for maintaining water levels and facilitating navigation along the river. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the role of this lock in supporting sustainable water usage and enhancing recreational opportunities in the area.

As part of the Jacksonville District, the Henry H. Buckman Lock stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity and effective water infrastructure management. Its strategic location, diverse purposes, and state regulation highlight its importance in promoting waterway navigation, recreation, and overall water resource sustainability in the region. Whether for leisure or commercial purposes, this lock plays a key role in facilitating water transportation and enhancing the resilience of the water management system in Putnam County, Florida.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

570

Dam Height

54

River Or Stream

ST. JOHNS RIVER-OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

125

Hydraulic Height

40

Drainage Area

1868

Nid Storage

130000

Structural Height

54

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

54
       
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.