Washington County Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hickory Lake Dam Habbes Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
Washington County Lake Dam, located in Pinkneyville, Illinois, is a state-owned structure constructed in 1962 by Rochester & Goodell.
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Summary
The dam, built for recreational purposes, stands at a height of 26 feet and spans 640 feet in length along Locust Creek. With a maximum storage capacity of 4,232 acre-feet, the dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities in Washington County, Illinois.
Although classified as having a low hazard potential, Washington County Lake Dam is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspections, and enforcement by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam's condition assessment is currently unavailable, and emergency action preparedness information is not updated. With its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam remains a significant feature in the St. Louis District, offering recreational opportunities while actively managed to ensure public safety and environmental protection.
Overall, Washington County Lake Dam serves as a vital resource for water recreation enthusiasts in Illinois, offering a serene setting for fishing, boating, and picnicking. While the dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of concern, its low hazard potential suggests that proper regulation and maintenance are in place to mitigate any potential risks. As a state-regulated structure, the dam reflects the commitment to ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in Washington County, Illinois, while providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor enjoyment.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
640 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
LOCUST CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
4232 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
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Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Washington County Lake Dam