M-4 Dam Reservoir Report

Nearby: M-1 M-5 Dam

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The M-4 Dam, also known as Lak05, is a local government-owned structure located in Lake County, Florida.


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Summary

Situated on the Palatlakaha River in Leesburg, this earth dam stands at a height of 17 feet with a hydraulic height of 15 feet, serving primarily for flood risk reduction. It has a storage capacity of 12,198 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 4,829 acre-feet and a surface area of 1,267 acres.

Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the M-4 Dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of its last inspection in April 2016. The spillway, which is uncontrolled and 90 feet in width, serves as the primary means for managing excess water flow. The dam also offers opportunities for recreation and water supply in addition to its flood risk reduction function, making it an important resource for the local community.

Located within the Jacksonville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the M-4 Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and ensuring water supply in the region. With its moderate risk assessment and various management measures in place, the dam continues to serve as a vital infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in Lake County, Florida.

Dam Length

135

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

PALATLAKAHA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1267

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

12198

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

17
       
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.