Manatee Cooling Water Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Manatee Cooling Water Reservoir in Florida is a significant water resource managed by a private entity for cooling purposes.


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Summary

This reservoir, completed in 1975, stands at a height of 79 feet with a capacity of 52,000 acre-feet of water and covers a surface area of 3,800 acres. Situated in the city of Parrish, it draws water from the Little Manatee River and is regulated by the state of Florida for permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure the safety and sustainability of the dam.

The dam, classified as an earth dam, serves a primary purpose of cooling, with a hydraulic height matching its structural height at 71 feet. Despite its high hazard potential, the Manatee Cooling Water Reservoir has been assessed as satisfactory in condition, with emergency action plans yet to be prepared. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1,965 cubic feet per second, this reservoir plays a crucial role in maintaining water temperatures for industrial use, emphasizing the importance of its management and regulation in the face of climate change and water resource challenges.

Owned by a private entity, the Manatee Cooling Water Reservoir is a key asset in the water infrastructure of Manatee County, Florida. As a high-hazard structure with a significant storage capacity, it highlights the importance of effective risk management and emergency preparedness in the face of potential hazards. With its strategic location and role in the regional water supply system, this reservoir stands as a vital resource for cooling purposes while also posing challenges that require careful monitoring and regulatory oversight to ensure its long-term reliability and safety.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

48000

Dam Height

79

River Or Stream

LITTLE MANATEE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3800

Hydraulic Height

79

Nid Storage

52000

Structural Height

71

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

79
       
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.