Settling Area No 1, located in Polk, Florida, is a privately owned earth dam with a primary purpose of tailings storage.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1962, this dam stands at a height of 18 feet and has a length of 2350 feet, providing a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet. Situated on the North Prong Alafia River, this significant hazard potential dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state of Florida.
Despite its small surface area of 3 acres and limited drainage area, Settling Area No 1 poses a risk to nearby residents and the environment. Though its condition has not been formally rated, the dam's emergency action plan status, contact information, and risk assessment measures remain unknown. With no designated outlet gates, spillway, or locks, the potential for a catastrophic failure underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure public safety and water resource protection in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts focus on the intersection of infrastructure, regulation, and environmental stewardship, understanding the complexities of dams like Settling Area No 1 is crucial. With its historical significance and potential for future modifications, this earth dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human development and natural resource conservation in our changing climate landscape.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
2350 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH PRONG ALAFIA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
51 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
18 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Alderman's Ford Park Campsite 4
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Alderman's Ford Park Campsite 3
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Alderman's Ford Park Campsite 1
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Alderman's Ford Park Campsite 2
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