Buckner Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Buckner Reservoir Dam, located in Zeigler, Illinois, was completed in 1910 by Old Ben Coal Co.


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Summary

The dam, primarily used for recreation purposes, stands at a height of 15 feet and spans a length of 425 feet. With a storage capacity of 78 acre-feet, it offers a serene environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy various outdoor activities.

Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced for safety measures. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, a high-risk assessment indicates the need for proactive risk management measures to ensure the dam's continued safety and functionality. The dam does not have a spillway and is not associated with any federal agencies for funding, design, construction, or operations.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts visiting Buckner Reservoir Dam can appreciate its historical significance, recreational opportunities, and the importance of ongoing risk management practices to mitigate potential hazards. The dam's location in Franklin County, Illinois, offers a picturesque setting for outdoor activities and serves as a reminder of the intersection between human infrastructure and natural resources in the region.

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

425

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

OFF STREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

78

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.