Barger Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Barger Lake Dam, located in Pope County, Illinois, was completed in 1958 and serves as a recreational spot for water enthusiasts.


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Summary

The dam, standing at a height of 39 feet and spanning 525 feet in length, holds a normal storage capacity of 90 acre-feet with a maximum storage of 106 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the TRIB LUST CREEK and is under the regulatory jurisdiction of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), ensuring regular inspections and enforcement for safety compliance.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Barger Lake Dam provides a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors engaging in water-related activities. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, offering a means for managing water levels during peak flow periods. Despite limited information on condition assessment and emergency preparedness measures, the dam continues to be a popular destination for locals and tourists seeking recreational opportunities in the beautiful surroundings of WATTERSBURG, Illinois.

While the dam's structural details and associated structures are well-documented, further information on risk management measures and emergency action plans could enhance the overall safety and resilience of Barger Lake Dam. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to enjoy the amenities offered by the dam, ongoing efforts to ensure proper maintenance and adherence to regulatory standards will be essential in preserving the dam's recreational value and safeguarding against potential risks.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

525

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

TRIB LUST CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

106

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

39
       
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.