Lateral Struct#3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 17, 2025

Lateral Struct#3, located in Sebastian, Florida, is a key irrigation structure designed by R.


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Summary

D. Carter in 1962. This stone dam stands at a height of 16 feet and spans 48 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 1900 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is irrigation, serving the local agricultural community in Indian River County. Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, the structure has not been rated for its condition as of the last inspection in 1994.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Lateral Struct#3 plays a vital role in flood risk reduction and water resource management in the region. With a drainage area of 7.98 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 462 cubic feet per second, the structure helps regulate water flow in the Canal Lateral C. While it has not been modified in recent years, its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates ensure water is safely managed during periods of high flow.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Lateral Struct#3 to be a fascinating example of infrastructure designed to support agricultural activities while mitigating flood risks in Florida. As a regulated state structure with a moderate risk assessment, it highlights the importance of effective water management practices in ensuring the resilience of communities and ecosystems in the face of changing climate conditions. Its historical significance and ongoing role in sustaining local agriculture make it a valuable asset in the region's water resource management efforts.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

48

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

CANAL LATERAL C

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

119

Drainage Area

7.98

Nid Storage

1900

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

16
       
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.