Payne Creek Clar. Area No 4 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Payne Creek Clarification Area No 4, located in Fort Meade, Polk County, Florida, is a privately-owned Earth dam constructed in 1972 for the primary purpose of tailings management.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 35 feet and has a structural height of 30 feet, with a length of 7920 feet. It has a storage capacity of 2073 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 59 acres. Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition is currently not rated, and it has not undergone recent inspections or assessments.
The dam is situated on Payne Creek and falls under the jurisdiction of the State of Florida, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement responsibilities being handled at the state level. While there are no associated structures or federal agency involvements with this dam, it is important to note that it is State regulated, permitted, and inspected. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and risk management measures are currently unspecified, highlighting a potential area for further evaluation and improvement in terms of emergency preparedness and safety protocols.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and regulation of dams, particularly in the context of tailings storage facilities, may find Payne Creek Clarification Area No 4 to be an intriguing case study. With its unique characteristics, location, and regulatory framework, this dam serves as a valuable example of the complexities involved in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water infrastructure in Florida. As discussions around dam safety and climate resilience continue to evolve, the insights provided by this dam can offer valuable lessons for future planning and decision-making in the water resource management sector.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
7920 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
PAYNE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
59 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Nid Storage |
2073 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Payne Creek Settling Area No 1