Simmons Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Simmons Lake, located in Hillsborough, Florida, is a man-made reservoir primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

Owned by the local government, this Earth-type dam stands at 10 feet high and has a storage capacity of 119 acre-feet. The lake covers a surface area of 25 acres and is situated near Cypress Creek, just 18 miles away from Tampa.

Despite its recreational purpose, Simmons Lake poses a significant hazard potential, with a fair condition assessment as of March 2016. The spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 56 feet. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it is subject to regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with regulatory standards. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, the lake's risk management measures and emergency preparedness protocols are essential to mitigate any potential threats.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate change will find Simmons Lake an intriguing case study in dam management and the intersection of recreation and environmental safety. With its unique design features and risk assessment profile, this reservoir serves as a valuable example of the delicate balance between human activity and natural resource conservation in the face of evolving climate conditions.

Dam Length

95

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

CYPRESS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Hydraulic Height

7

Nid Storage

119

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

10
       
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.