Harris Bayou Structure Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Harris Bayou Structure, located in Lake Harris, Florida, is a state-regulated earth dam with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.


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Summary

This structure, also known as Lak02, has a moderate hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in fair condition. The dam has a height of 12 feet and a length of 550 feet, providing a storage capacity of 202,247 acre-feet and serving multiple purposes including recreation and water supply.

Managed by the SJRWMD, Harris Bayou Structure features a controlled spillway with a width of 26 feet and outlet gates of the bascule type. The structure is situated in Tavares, Lake County, and is owned by the state of Florida. With a very high risk assessment score, it is crucial that this dam undergoes regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and water resources. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the vital role that Harris Bayou Structure plays in managing flood risks and providing essential water supply in the region.

Dam Length

550

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

LAKE HARRIS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

33655

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

202247

Outlet Gates

Bascule

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

12
       
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.