Brian Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Located in Downs, Illinois, the Brian Lake Dam is a private structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1954.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and stretches 260 feet in length, serving primarily for recreational purposes. With a storage capacity of 124 acre-feet and a surface area of 8 acres, the dam regulates the flow of the TRIB KICKAPOO CREEK-OFFSTREAM, providing both flood control and recreational opportunities for visitors.
State-regulated and inspected by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the Brian Lake Dam has a spillway width of 38 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 300 cubic feet per second. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is moderate, with a hazard rating of 3. Emergency action plans and risk management measures are in place to ensure the safety of nearby residents in case of any unforeseen events.
With its picturesque location and importance in the local ecosystem, the Brian Lake Dam stands as a testament to the balance between water resource management and recreational enjoyment. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like this serve as vital tools in mitigating risks and ensuring sustainable use of our natural landscapes.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
260 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB KICKAPOO CREEK-OFFSTREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
124 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Brian Lake Dam