Lake Bracken Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dennis Russell Dam Lake Rice Dam
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Lake Bracken Dam, located in Knox County, Illinois, is a vital water resource structure primarily serving as a water supply for the local community.
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Summary
Built in 1922 by the C. B. & Q. Railroad, this earth dam stands at a height of 47 feet and spans 620 feet in length. With a normal storage capacity of 884 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
The dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Classified as having a significant hazard potential, Lake Bracken Dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 150 feet. Despite its age, the dam continues to fulfill its purpose effectively, demonstrating a moderate risk level and meeting regulatory guidelines.
Lake Bracken Dam's historical significance, combined with its continued functionality in providing water supply and managing water resources, makes it a noteworthy structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As a vital component of the local infrastructure, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and safeguarding water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1922 |
Dam Length |
620 |
Dam Height |
47 |
River Or Stream |
BRUSH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
2020 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
47 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Spoon River At London Mills
|
86cfs |
Spoon River At Seville
|
146cfs |
Henderson Creek Near Oquawka
|
39cfs |
Edwards River Near Orion
|
66cfs |
Indian Creek Near Wyoming
|
3cfs |
Pope Creek Near Keithsburg
|
30cfs |
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.
Lake Bracken Dam