Watson Sa No 10 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Watson Sa No 10, located in Fort Meade, Florida, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1974 for the primary purpose of storing tailings.


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Summary

The dam stands at 51 feet in height with a length of 8600 feet and a storage capacity of 2200 acre-feet. Situated on Bowlegs Creek, this dam is regulated by the state of Florida and undergoes regular inspections, enforcement, and permitting to ensure its safety and integrity.

With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Watson Sa No 10 serves as a vital structure for water resource management in Polk County. The dam's location on a tributary of the Peace River highlights its importance in regulating water flow and providing flood control for the surrounding area. Despite not having an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, the dam's risk management measures and adherence to state regulations demonstrate a commitment to public safety and environmental protection.

As a key feature of the water infrastructure in Florida, Watson Sa No 10 plays a crucial role in maintaining water quality and quantity in the region. Its design and construction reflect the efforts to balance economic development with environmental conservation, showcasing the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate change challenges. With ongoing monitoring and maintenance, this dam continues to be a critical asset for water security and resilience in the state.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

8600

Dam Height

51

River Or Stream

BOWLEGS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

43

Hydraulic Height

51

Nid Storage

2200

Structural Height

46

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

51
       
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.