Trago Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Trago Lake Dam, located in Clay County, Illinois, was completed in 1956 and serves as a recreational site for water enthusiasts.


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Summary

The dam, standing at 18 feet high and 300 feet long, offers a serene escape for visitors seeking outdoor activities such as fishing and boating on Trago Lake. With a storage capacity of 89 acre-feet, the dam provides a scenic backdrop for nature lovers to enjoy.

Managed by a private entity, Trago Lake Dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, ensuring that the structure meets safety standards and undergoes regular inspections. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is classified as moderate, prompting the need for ongoing risk management measures to mitigate any potential issues. While the condition assessment is currently not available, the dam continues to be a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a tranquil setting for outdoor recreational pursuits.

As a key feature along the Tributary of Raccoon Creek, Trago Lake Dam contributes to the overall water resource management in the region. With its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam provides a controlled flow of water, enhancing the natural environment while also serving as a recreational hub for the community. The dam's historical significance, coupled with its modern-day impact on water conservation and climate resilience, makes Trago Lake Dam a notable site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TRIB RACCOON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

89

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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.