M-5 Dam Reservoir Report

Nearby: M-4 Dam M-6a

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The M-5 Dam, also known as Lak06, is a crucial structure located in Mascotte, Florida, along the Palatlaka River.


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Summary

Owned by the local government, this earth dam stands at a height of 11 feet and has a primary purpose of flood risk reduction. In addition to flood risk reduction, the dam also serves for recreation and water supply purposes, demonstrating its importance in managing water resources in the area.

With a significant hazard potential and a fair condition assessment as of April 2016, the M-5 Dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 20 feet and outlet gates of Tainter type. The dam has a storage capacity of 1498 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 326 acres. Despite its fair condition, the dam's risk assessment is very high, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its proper functioning and safety for the surrounding community.

The M-5 Dam, situated in Lake County, Florida, under the jurisdiction of FDEP, is a key infrastructure for flood risk reduction and water management in the region. Its location along the Palatlaka River and its capacity for storage and controlled release demonstrate its vital role in protecting the area from potential flooding events. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the intricate design and functionality of the M-5 Dam in safeguarding the local community and environment from water-related risks.

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

PALATLAKAHA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

326

Hydraulic Height

11

Nid Storage

1498

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial)

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

11
       
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.