Little Lake Bonnet

Little Lake Bonnet is a mucky-bottomed, shallow transition type lake located between the cities of Avon Park and Sebring.  Based on Lakewatch data, water quality in Little Lake Bonnet is poor due to frequently high levels of algae that result from high nutrient levels in the water.  Phosphorus levels are fairly low for a transition type lake, ranging from 7 to 30 ppb (parts per billion) and averaging only 22 ppb.  However, nitrogen levels are fairly high in this lake, ranging from 820 to 2670 ppb and averaging 1530 ppb.  Algae populations, as measured by the concentration of chlorophyll in the water, are consistently high in this lake due to high levels of nutrients.  Chlorophyll concentrations range from 16 to 85 ppb and average 38 ppb.  The presence of algae reduces water clarity, which is measured as the depth to which a standardized 'secchi' disc can be seen when lowered into the water.  Secchi depths range from 0.6 to 3 feet and average 1.7 feet.  Water quality in this lake appears to have declined somewhat since sampling began in 1999.  Average nutrient levels increased during 2002 and water clarity has declined.  Click here to view water quality data by year.

The boat ramp for Little Lake Bonnet is located on the northeast side of the lake at the south end of the golf course.  From State Road 17, take Pinecrest Drive to Holly Hurst Drive to Little Lake Bonnet Road.

Lakewatch water quality data through 1999