Sa 3b S.R. Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Sa 3b S.R., located in White Springs, Florida, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1968 for the primary purpose of tailings storage.


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Summary

The dam has a height of 26 feet and a hydraulic height of 21 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 2000 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 1500 acre-feet. The dam, situated on the Suwannee River, spans 6350 feet in length and covers a surface area of 73 acres, serving as a crucial water resource management structure in the region.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Sa 3b S.R. is deemed to have a very high risk, with a risk assessment rating of 1. The dam is regulated by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safe operation. While the condition of the dam is currently not rated, the last inspection was conducted in December 1998, highlighting the need for regular monitoring and maintenance to mitigate any potential risks associated with its aging infrastructure.

As a key component of water resource management in Hamilton County, Florida, Sa 3b S.R. plays a critical role in flood control and water supply for the surrounding area. With its controlled spillway and low hazard potential, the dam serves as a vital structure for protecting downstream communities and ecosystems from potential flooding events. As climate change continues to impact water resources in the region, the maintenance and monitoring of Sa 3b S.R. will be essential to ensure its continued effectiveness and safety in the face of evolving environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

6350

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

SUWANNE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

73

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

0.11

Nid Storage

2000

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.