Barwell Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Schlipf Lake Dam Sunset Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Barwell Lake Dam, located in Mackinaw, Illinois, was completed in 1956 and serves as a key recreational resource in the area.
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Summary
Owned privately, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and boasts a length of 275 feet, providing a storage capacity of 61 acre-feet. While primarily used for recreation, the dam is also state-regulated and inspected regularly by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.
Situated on Trib Vincent Run, a tributary in Woodford County, Barwell Lake Dam's hazard potential is deemed low with a moderate risk assessment score of 3. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway and outlet gates function efficiently to manage water flow. The dam's condition assessment is currently not available, but it meets all necessary guidelines for emergency action preparedness. The surrounding area enjoys the benefits of this dam for various recreational activities, making it a valuable asset to both locals and visitors alike.
With its tranquil setting and scenic beauty, Barwell Lake Dam offers a serene escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its strategic location and low hazard potential make it an ideal destination for outdoor activities and relaxation. As a well-maintained structure with a history dating back to the mid-20th century, this dam continues to play a vital role in the community, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for all who appreciate the wonders of nature and water resources.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
275 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB VINCENT RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
61 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
31 |
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.
Barwell Lake Dam