Scha Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Tampa, Florida, the Scha dam plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction along the Rocky Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1978, this concrete structure stands at a height of 14 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 1200 acre-feet. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition since its last inspection in 1999.

Managed by the Southwest Florida Water Management District, Scha is regulated by the state of Florida and subject to regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement. While it lacks a spillway, the dam's uncontrolled outlet gates can release a maximum discharge of 2475 cubic feet per second. With a drainage area of 43.7 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 900 acre-feet, Scha is designed to mitigate flooding in the region and protect the surrounding communities.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Scha dam presents an intriguing case study in flood risk management and infrastructure resilience. With its high risk assessment and significant hazard potential, the dam's condition and maintenance are of paramount importance in safeguarding the local area from potential disasters. As we continue to monitor and address the impacts of climate change on water resources, understanding the role of structures like Scha in mitigating flood risks becomes increasingly critical for sustainable water management practices.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

166

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

ROCKY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

75

Hydraulic Height

10.9

Drainage Area

43.7

Nid Storage

1200

Structural Height

18.5

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

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.