Sanford Cooling Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sanford Cooling Reservoir, located in Volusia, Florida, is a privately owned Earth dam completed in 1971 with a primary purpose other than flood control or water supply.


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Summary

This reservoir has a maximum storage capacity of 18,000 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 13,200 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 1,105 acres. The dam stands at a height of 34 feet and has a structural height of 23 feet, serving as an offstream source of the St. Johns River.

With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment as of July 2014, Sanford Cooling Reservoir plays a crucial role in maintaining water resources and supporting climate resilience in the region. The reservoir has the capacity to discharge up to 2,300 cubic feet per second and is under state jurisdiction with permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. Despite being privately owned, the reservoir is regulated by the state of Florida to ensure its safe operation and compliance with environmental standards.

As a key component of the water infrastructure in the area, Sanford Cooling Reservoir contributes to water management efforts and serves as a vital resource for the community. Its strategic location and design make it an important asset for cooling purposes and environmental sustainability in the region. With its impressive storage capacity and effective operation, this reservoir showcases the intersection of water resource management and climate adaptation, playing a significant role in addressing water challenges and supporting ecological balance in the area.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

31000

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

ST JOHNS RIVER-OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1105

Hydraulic Height

34

Nid Storage

18000

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

34
       
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.