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After extreme floods, city, county and SWFWMD agree to watershed study for Lake Bonney system
Summary
Following extraordinary rainfall and a fire‑response surge, city staff and county officials agreed to commission a watershed study (estimated 4–6 months) covering Lake Bonney, Lake Parker and downstream connections to inform pump operations and long‑term mitigation; existing SWFWMD permit limits pumping to 12 MGD.
City staff described actions and recent history around Lake Bonney pumping, the mechanics of the emergency pump permit and next steps after record storm events.
Laurie Smith, lakes and stormwater manager, and Public Works staff said the city and Polk County jointly hold a permit from the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) authorizing emergency pumping when lake levels exceed the 10‑year flood stage. The permit caps pumping at 12,000,000 gallons per day (12 MGD). City engineers previously tested earlier pump installations: a 12‑inch pump test in 2015 documented a practical pumping rate of about 6.3 MGD without causing ditch overflow; the 18‑inch pump later installed has manufacturer specifications consistent with the permit (roughly 12–12.5 MGD capacity).
City staff emphasized the practical limit for pumping is not only pump capacity but downstream conveyance — culverts, ditches and channels — which must be able to accept additional flow without causing flooding farther downstream. That is why staff adjusts pumping rates based on observed conveyance conditions.
Given the scale of the issue, city and county officials agreed to commission a watershed study covering the broader Lake Hancock watershed (which includes Lake Gibson, Lake Parker and Lake Bonney and ties to the Peace River system). City staff have an AECOM proposal in hand for the watershed study, which staff said could be completed in about four to six months if authorized; county officials indicated they would participate and provide funds. SWFWMD representatives attended coordination meetings and stressed downstream impacts must be considered before any permit modifications.
Commissioners asked for maps of the watershed and for timing; staff said they would proceed with the study and coordinate with the county and SWFWMD and that estimated study cost information (AECOM proposal ~ $80,000–$85,000) was already under discussion.
Ending
Staff will move forward with an expedited watershed study, coordinated with Polk County and SWFWMD; findings will be used to evaluate mitigation options and possible permit adjustments, and staff will report back on timeline and funding.
