Saddle Creek Sa-3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Saddle Creek Sa-3 is a private-owned earth dam located in Polk County, Florida, specifically in the city of Lakeland.


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Summary

Built in 1970 for tailings storage, this dam stands at a height of 19 feet with a length of 10,500 feet. It has a storage capacity of 3,710 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 195 acres and serving the purpose of managing water flow in the Saddle Creek stream.

Managed by the Jacksonville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Saddle Creek Sa-3 has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. While it has state-regulated inspections and enforcement in place, there is no emergency action plan prepared, indicating a potential area for improvement in terms of risk management and preparedness. With a maximum discharge capacity of 220 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Saddle Creek Sa-3 offers a fascinating case study on the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and regulatory oversight. As a part of the larger network of dams in Florida, understanding the design, function, and maintenance of this dam can provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with managing water resources in a dynamic and changing climate. By examining the history and operations of Saddle Creek Sa-3, enthusiasts can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities involved in balancing human needs with ecological sustainability in the face of climate uncertainty.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

10500

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

SADDLE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

195

Hydraulic Height

19

Nid Storage

3710

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

19
       
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.