Horton Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Horton Dam, located in High Springs, Florida, is a privately owned earth dam built in 1970 for recreational purposes on the Olustee Creek.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 20 feet and a length of 535 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet with a normal storage level of 104 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated by the state of Florida and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and integrity.

The dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and creating a small fish pond in addition to providing recreational opportunities for visitors. With a surface area of 10 acres, the dam offers a picturesque setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking. While the dam has not been rated for its condition, it meets state permitting and inspection requirements, indicating a commitment to maintaining safe and sustainable water resources in the area.

Located in Columbia County, Florida, Horton Dam contributes to the local water supply and ecosystem by regulating the flow of the Olustee Creek. Although it does not have a spillway or outlet gates, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and supporting the surrounding wildlife. With its scenic location and recreational amenities, Horton Dam is a valuable resource for both water enthusiasts and climate advocates who appreciate the importance of sustainable water management practices in preserving natural habitats.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

535

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

OLUSTEE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

200

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds