S-65a Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

S-65a is a state-regulated dam located in Osceola, Florida, with the primary purpose of flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Built in 1967, this earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and spans 81 feet in length. It has a maximum storage capacity of 2,110 acre-feet and normal storage of 1,485 acre-feet, providing flood protection to the surrounding area along the Kissimmee River (C-38).

The dam's hazard potential is rated as low, with a moderate risk assessment score of 3. Although it is currently in a not rated condition assessment status, the dam is inspected, permitted, and regulated by the state of Florida with enforcement and inspection protocols in place. The spillway type is uncontrolled, with no locks or outlet gates associated with the structure. Despite its age, S-65a continues to serve its purpose effectively in mitigating flood risks in the Fort Kissimmee area.

S-65a is an important piece of infrastructure in the flood risk reduction efforts in Osceola, Florida. With a history of serving its purpose since 1967, this state-regulated dam provides peace of mind to the local community in terms of flood protection along the Kissimmee River. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the design and functionality of structures like S-65a is crucial in managing water resources and mitigating the impacts of climate change on vulnerable areas like Fort Kissimmee.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

81

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

KISSIMMEE RIVER (C-38)

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

60

Hydraulic Height

35

Nid Storage

2110

Structural Height

23

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

35
       
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.