Bonnie Lake Mine Nw Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bonnie Lake Mine NW is a privately owned structure located in Bartow, Polk County, Florida.


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Summary

This tailings dam, completed in 1995, serves the primary purpose of storing tailings with a height of 15 feet and a length of 4641 feet. The dam is classified as an Earth dam with a stone core and soil foundation, holding a maximum storage capacity of 600 acre-feet and a normal storage of 530 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) and undergoes regular inspections, enforcement, and permitting processes to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Situated along the Alafia River, the Bonnie Lake Mine NW dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam has a spillway width of 6 feet to manage potential excess water discharge. The structure has not been modified in recent years and is currently in a not-rated condition assessment status. The last inspection date for the dam was in January 2006, indicating a need for updated assessment and emergency action preparedness to meet guidelines and ensure the safety of the surrounding area in case of potential inundation events.

With its strategic location and significant role in water resource management, Bonnie Lake Mine NW serves as a crucial component in environmental conservation efforts in Florida. As climate change and water scarcity become increasing concerns, the proper maintenance and monitoring of such structures are essential to prevent potential risks and ensure the sustainability of water resources in the region. By staying informed and up-to-date on the dam's condition and regulatory compliance, water resource and climate enthusiasts can contribute to the preservation of the Alafia River ecosystem and promote a more resilient water management system in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1995

Dam Length

4641

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

ALAFIA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

53

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

0.08

Nid Storage

600

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

17
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.