Lake Verona

Lake Verona is a deep (65 feet), sandy-bottomed, clear ridge type lake located in the City of Avon Park.  Based on Lakewatch data, water quality in Lake Verona is good.  Phosphorus in this lake ranges from a low 5 ppb (parts per billion) to a moderately high 43 ppb, averaging a good 13 ppb.   Nitrogen is usually low as well, ranging from 190 to 980 ppb and averaging 381 ppb.  Algae populations, as estimated by the concentration of chlorophyll in the water, increase and decrease as nutrient levels increase and decrease.  Chlorophyll concentration range from a low 2 ppb to a moderately high 52 ppb, averaging a good 7 ppb.  Low algae levels generally result in a high degree of water clarity, as measured by the depth to which a standardized 'secchi' disc can be seen when lowered into the water.  Secchi depths in Lake Verona range from 4 to 22 feet and average a very high 14 feet, making this among the clearest lakes in the county.  Lake Verona has recently been impacted by city infrastructure problems and addressing stormwater runoff will be a future concern for this lake.  There was a decline in the water quality of Lake Verona during the summer of 2002, primarily resulting in blooms of red algae and beach closures due to high bacteria test results.  The problem seems to have subsided since the dry season began in the fall of 2002, but stormwater issues must be addressed to prevent future problems.  The City of Avon Park is currently looking into technology to reduce stormwater impacts.  Click here to view water quality data by year.

The boat ramp for Lake Verona is located on the west side of the lake.  Take Verona Avenue north from Main Street in Avon Park and turn right on church street and follow the road to the end.  There is a public swim beach on Lake Verona just off of main street at the southwest end of the lake.

Historic aerial photo gallery 1944-2002

Lakewatch water quality data through 1999