Nichols Cooling Pond Wa Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Nichols Cooling Pond Wa, located in Polk, Florida, is a privately owned water resource with a primary purpose of tailings management.


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Summary

Constructed in 1990 by ARDAMAN & ASSOCIATES, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a storage capacity of 850 acre-feet. The pond covers an area of 37 acres and is situated along the Alafia River, making it a vital component of the local water infrastructure.

Despite its significant hazard potential and high risk assessment rating, Nichols Cooling Pond Wa meets state regulations for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, and emergency action plans are not reported to be in place. The absence of a spillway and locks raises concerns about potential discharge management in the event of an emergency. With its last inspection dating back to 2006, there is a need for updated assessments and risk management measures to ensure the safety and sustainability of this water resource.

In the realm of water resource and climate enthusiasts, Nichols Cooling Pond Wa presents an intriguing case study for exploring the intersection of private ownership, regulatory oversight, and environmental risk management. The dam's location, design features, and storage capacity offer valuable insights into the challenges and considerations involved in managing water resources for industrial purposes. As discussions around climate change and water security continue to evolve, the sustainable operation and maintenance of structures like Nichols Cooling Pond Wa will be critical in ensuring the resilience of water infrastructure in Florida and beyond.

Year Completed

1990

Dam Length

5000

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

ALAFIA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

37

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

0.06

Nid Storage

850

Structural Height

27

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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.