Unnamed Detention Basin (Lake Somerset) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Polk, Florida, the Unnamed Detention Basin, also known as Lake Somerset, serves as a vital flood risk reduction structure managed by the local government.


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Summary

The basin has a low hazard potential and is in fair condition, with a storage capacity of 181 acre-feet and a surface area of 2 acres. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a focus on controlling the flow of the unnamed pond that feeds into Lake Somerset.

Constructed with an earth dam type and stone core, the Unnamed Detention Basin has a dam height of 8 feet and a hydraulic height of 5 feet. The spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 10 feet. The structure has undergone inspections in the past, with the last assessment conducted in April 2016, showcasing its moderate risk level. Despite its low hazard potential, the basin plays a crucial role in managing water levels and protecting surrounding areas from potential flooding events.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Unnamed Detention Basin offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of engineering, hydrology, and environmental conservation. With its strategic location and design features, this flood risk reduction structure exemplifies the importance of sustainable water management practices in mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events and safeguarding communities against the threats of flooding.

Dam Length

35

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

UNNAMED POND (LAKE SOMERSET)

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

5

Drainage Area

0.3

Nid Storage

181

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

8
       
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.