Lake Echon Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Echon Dam, located in Johnson County, Illinois, was completed in 1968 and serves as a vital water resource for the area.


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Summary

The dam, with a height of 16 feet and a length of 820 feet, primarily functions for recreational purposes, providing a serene environment for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Managed by a private owner, the dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, ensuring state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures are in place to maintain its integrity.

With a storage capacity of 178 acre-feet and a normal storage of 129 acre-feet, Lake Echon Dam offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and picnicking. The dam's spillway, with a width of 35 feet, is uncontrolled, adding to the natural beauty and charm of the surrounding area. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is subject to regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality, with a moderate risk assessment score of 3 indicating a need for ongoing risk management measures.

Lake Echon Dam, nestled along the tributary of Ozark Creek, not only provides a recreational oasis but also contributes to the overall water management system in the region. As a significant feature in the St. Louis District, the dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource utilization and preservation efforts. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the careful design and maintenance of Lake Echon Dam as it continues to serve both practical and leisure purposes for the community in Johnson County, Illinois.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

820

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

TRIB OZARK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

178

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
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.