Williams & Shelt Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Williams & Shelt is a privately owned dam in Gadsden, Florida, with the primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

Built in 1952 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 21 feet and has a length of 610 feet, providing a storage capacity of 69 acre-feet. The dam is located on the TR-Little River and is regulated by the NWFWMD, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Williams & Shelt has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 60 feet and a drainage area of 0.28 square miles. Although the dam has not been inspected since 1994 and is currently not rated for condition assessment, it remains operational and serves as a vital resource for irrigation and fish and wildlife ponds in the area. Its location in Lake Talquin, adjacent to the Savannah District of the USACE, highlights its importance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts.

Despite its age, Williams & Shelt continues to play a crucial role in water management in Florida, with a storage capacity of 69 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 1440 cubic feet per second. As discussions around climate change and water scarcity intensify, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management practices. While its risk assessment may raise some concerns, the dam's strategic location and purpose make it a key asset in the region's efforts to mitigate the impacts of a changing climate on water availability and ecosystem health.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

610

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

TR-LITTLE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Drainage Area

0.28

Nid Storage

69

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

21
       
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.