Lake Manatee Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Manatee Dam, located in Bradenton, Florida, serves as a crucial water supply source for the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1967, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 54 feet and stretches 4700 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 46,600 acre-feet. The dam plays a pivotal role in managing water resources for both recreational and municipal purposes, with a normal storage capacity of 22,700 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 16,000 cubic feet per second.

The dam's strategic location along the Manatee River underscores its importance in providing water for the surrounding communities and supporting various water-related activities. State-regulated and inspected, Lake Manatee Dam has a satisfactory condition assessment, with a high hazard potential due to its critical role in flood control and water supply management. While specific details about the spillway type, outlet gates, and associated structures are not provided, the dam's role in ensuring water security and environmental sustainability in the region cannot be overstated.

Managed by the local government and situated within the Jacksonville District, Lake Manatee Dam is a key infrastructure project that highlights the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. With its notable height and storage capacity, the dam stands as a critical asset for water supply in Manatee, Florida. As climate change impacts water availability and quality, the continued operation and maintenance of Lake Manatee Dam are essential for safeguarding the region's water resources and enhancing its resilience to changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

4700

Dam Height

54

River Or Stream

MANATEE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1000

Hydraulic Height

54

Nid Storage

46600

Structural Height

50

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

54
       
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.