Summary
Fish and Wildlife Service for the primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond. This earth dam stands at 13 feet high and spans a length of 24,080 feet, with a storage capacity of 156,164 acre-feet and a surface area of 11,616 acres. While the dam has a low hazard potential, its condition assessment in 2019 was deemed unsatisfactory, indicating that maintenance and repairs may be needed to ensure its continued safety and functionality.
The Suwannee River Sill Dam serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock or small fish pond, and recreation. It is a vital resource for the surrounding area, with a drainage area of 824 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 20,558 cubic feet per second. Despite its risk assessment of "Very High (1)", there have been no reported incidents or emergencies associated with the dam. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last one taking place in March 2019, and necessary risk management measures are likely in place to address any potential issues that may arise in the future.
The Suwannee River Sill Dam plays a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem and providing recreational opportunities for the community. As a federally owned structure, it is overseen by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and falls under the jurisdiction of the Jacksonville District. With its rich history dating back to the 1960s, the dam remains a significant feature along the Suwannee River, contributing to the region's water resource management and climate resilience efforts.
Years Modified |
1979 - Structural, 1996 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
24080 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
SUWANEE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11616 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Drainage Area |
824 |
Nid Storage |
156164 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Suwannee River At Us 441
|
174cfs |
North Prong St. Marys River At Moniac
|
0cfs |
Suwannee R Nr Benton Fla
|
1250cfs |
Satilla River Near Waycross
|
176cfs |
St. Marys River Nr Macclenny
|
35cfs |
Alapaha River At Statenville
|
154cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Mixons Hammock Campsite
|
||
Pioneer Camping
|
||
Stephen C. Foster State Park
|
Suwannee River Sill Dam
The Suwannee River Sill At River Mile 238 To The Little River Springs At River Mile 81
The Headwaters To The Suwannee River Sill At River Mile 238