S-121 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

S-121 is a state-regulated flood risk reduction structure located in Cutler Ridge, Miami-Dade, Florida.


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Summary

This dam, primarily owned and operated by the state, plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area by controlling the flow of the Cutler Drain Canal (C-100C). With a height of 11 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 1000 acre-feet, S-121 serves as a significant infrastructure for mitigating flood risks in the region.

Despite its importance, S-121 has not been rated for its condition assessment, and the last inspection date recorded was in 1905. The dam is categorized as having a significant hazard potential, highlighting the critical need for regular maintenance and monitoring to ensure its structural integrity and effectiveness in flood control. Although the dam has not been modified in recent years, its operational status and emergency preparedness measures, including the existence of an emergency action plan, remain unspecified.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, S-121 presents an intriguing case study for examining the role of state-owned flood risk reduction structures in managing water flow and mitigating potential hazards. The dam's location in a densely populated area underscores the importance of regular inspection and maintenance to protect surrounding communities from the impacts of flooding. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water resource management, ensuring the resilience and functionality of structures like S-121 is essential for safeguarding both people and the environment in the face of changing weather patterns and increasing flood risks.

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

CUTLER DRAIN CANAL (C-100C)

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

94

Hydraulic Height

9

Nid Storage

1000

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

13
       
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.