Clear Springs Fortner Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Clear Springs Fortner Lake is a privately owned water resource located in Polk, Florida, near the city of Bartow.


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Summary

This Earth dam was completed in 1977 and serves primarily as a tailings storage facility with a maximum storage capacity of 600 acre-feet. The reservoir has a surface area of 35 acres and is situated along the Peace River, under the jurisdiction of the Jacksonville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.

The dam at Clear Springs Fortner Lake stands at a height of 17 feet, with a structural height of 12 feet and a length of 200 feet. While the dam is currently rated as having significant hazard potential, its condition assessment is listed as "Not Rated." The outlet gates are uncontrolled, and the spillway type and width are not specified. Despite being regulated by the state and subject to inspections, the facility does not have an emergency action plan in place.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Clear Springs Fortner Lake presents a fascinating case study in dam infrastructure management and regulatory oversight. With its location along the Peace River and its significance as a tailings storage facility, the lake serves as a critical water resource in the region. Understanding the complexities of its design, purpose, and potential risks underscores the importance of proactive monitoring and management practices to ensure the safety and sustainability of this vital water source.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

PEACE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

35

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

600

Structural Height

12

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

17
       
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.