Knights Of Pythias Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Knights of Pythias Lake Dam, located in Saline, Illinois, is a private earth dam built in 1928 primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 14 feet and stretches 550 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 67 acre-feet. Situated on the Trib South Fork Saline River, the dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 40 feet and is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Despite its low hazard potential, Knights of Pythias Lake Dam undergoes regular inspections every 5 years, with the last assessment conducted in August 2014. The dam is classified as having a moderate risk level, with no available condition assessment. While emergency action plans and risk management measures are not currently in place, the dam's overall risk profile is monitored to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Knights of Pythias Lake Dam for its historical significance, recreational value, and regulatory oversight. As a key feature in the St. Louis District, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and managing our water infrastructure to prevent potential risks and ensure the sustainability of our natural resources.

Year Completed

1928

Dam Length

550

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

TRIB SOUTH FORK SALINE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

67

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.