Rivard Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Fl Walton Co Noname 5 Dam No. 1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Walton County, Florida, the Rivard Dam is a private earth dam constructed in 1973 by the USDA NRCS for recreational purposes along Bruce Creek.
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Summary
With a height of 16 feet and a length of 510 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 64 acre-feet and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, fish and wildlife habitat, and recreation. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is regulated by the Northwest Florida Water Management District and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
The Rivard Dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 45 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 701 cubic feet per second. While the dam has not been modified since its completion, it is situated in a drainage area of 0.16 square miles, providing essential water resources for the surrounding ecosystem. With a surface area of 4 acres and a normal storage capacity of 44 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels and supporting aquatic life in the area.
Despite its moderate risk rating, the Rivard Dam remains a vital part of the local water infrastructure, offering not only recreational opportunities but also essential environmental benefits. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the proper management and maintenance of dams like Rivard are essential to ensure water security and ecosystem sustainability in the region. With its picturesque location and multifaceted purposes, the Rivard Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in Florida.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
510 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
BRUCE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Drainage Area |
0.16 |
Nid Storage |
64 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
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