S-40 Reservoir Report

Nearby: G-56 S-41

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Palm Beach, Florida, the S-40 structure is a state-owned flood risk reduction dam on the C-15 Canal.


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Summary

With a height of 15 feet and a storage capacity of 1150 acre-feet, S-40 plays a crucial role in managing water levels and mitigating flood risks in the area. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, and it is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state government to ensure its effectiveness and safety.

Despite being built in an era where inspection records were not as extensive, S-40 is classified as having a significant hazard potential. The structure has not been formally assessed for its condition, but with a hydraulic height of 12 feet and a structural height of 17 feet, it remains a key component of the flood control system in the region. Although details on its construction date and modifications are scarce, the dam continues to provide critical protection and water management services to the community of Delray Beach.

As a water resource and climate enthusiast, the S-40 structure offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and importance of flood risk reduction infrastructure in Florida. With its significant hazard potential and state-regulated operation, S-40 stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance water management needs with environmental and public safety considerations. Its location on the C-15 Canal and role in managing water levels highlight the critical role that such structures play in protecting communities and ecosystems from the impacts of extreme weather events and flooding.

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

C-15 CANAL

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

87

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

1150

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

17
       
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.