Big Four Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 30, 2025
Located in Madison, Illinois, the Big Four Reservoir Dam, also known as the Livingston Reservoir Dam, is a privately owned structure designed with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Completed in 1906, this Earth-type dam stands at 27 feet high and spans 391 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 276 acre-feet. Situated on the TRIB SILVER CREEK offstream, the dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the Big Four Reservoir Dam serves as a vital recreational resource for the local community. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 70 feet, providing an outlet for excess water during times of heavy rainfall. Despite its age, the dam remains in good condition, with no available assessment data indicating any major issues. Overall, the dam contributes to the conservation and management of water resources in the area while offering opportunities for outdoor recreation and leisure activities.
Year Completed |
1906 |
Dam Length |
391 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB SILVER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
276 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
27 |
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.
Big Four Reservoir Dam