Jim Woodruff Lock and Dam

APALACHICOLA· Jackson, Florida· Built 1954· Gravity·
High Hazard Navigation Recreation Hydroelectric Flood Risk Reduction Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Jim Woodruff Lock and Dam is classified as high hazard in Florida. It was completed in 1954 and is 72 years old. Its primary use is navigation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length7,000 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage406.2K acre-ft
Normal Storage406.2K acre-ft
Surface Area37,500 acres
Drainage Area17,200 sq mi
Max Discharge1,210,800 cfs
Year Completed1954 (72 years old)
NID IDFL00435

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: January 29, 2019
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: FDEP

Ownership

USACE - Mobile District

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Jim Woodruff Lock and Dam?

Jim Woodruff Lock and Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Jim Woodruff Lock and Dam?

Jim Woodruff Lock and Dam is owned by USACE - Mobile District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Jim Woodruff Lock and Dam built?

Jim Woodruff Lock and Dam was completed in 1954, making it 72 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Jim Woodruff Lock and Dam?

Jim Woodruff Lock and Dam serves the following purposes: Navigation, Recreation, Hydroelectric, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Jim Woodruff Lock and Dam last inspected?

Jim Woodruff Lock and Dam was last inspected on January 29, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.