Lake Lelia

Lake Lelia is a mucky bottomed, naturally stained 'transition' type lake located to the east of US 27 just south of the City of Avon Park.  Water quality in Lake Lelia is good for a lake of this type, based on the limited amount of Lakewatch data available.  Phosphorus levels range from 8 to 25 ppb (parts per billion) and average 15 ppb, well within the expected range for a transition type lake.  Nitrogen levels are also as expected, if somewhat low, ranging from 400 to 1080 ppb and averaging 700 ppb.  Algae populations, as measured by the concentration of chlorophyll in the water, are low to moderate as a result of low to moderate nutrient levels in the water. Chlorophyll concentrations range from 4 to 59 ppb and average 19 ppb.  Along with the natural staining of the water, algae populations affect water clarity, which is measured by the depth to which a standardized 'secchi' disc can be seen when lowered into the water.  Secchi depths range from 2 to 15 feet and average 5 feet, which is very good for a transition type lake.  Water quality parameters appear to fluctuate as expected based on the data available.  Click here to view water quality data by year.

The boat ramp on Lake Lelia is located at the west end of the lake at the end of Martin Road, just off of US 27.

Historic aerial photo gallery 1944-2002

Lakewatch water quality data through 1999