Old Five Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Old Five Lake Dam, located in Knox County, Illinois, was completed in 1945 and stands at a height of 35 feet, with a length of 300 feet.
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Summary
The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, offering a serene setting for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Situated on the TRIB LITTLERS CREEK, the dam is privately owned and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance.
With a maximum storage capacity of 40 acre-feet, Old Five Lake Dam provides a tranquil retreat for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. The dam's low hazard potential, combined with its moderate risk assessment rating, indicates a relatively stable and secure structure. While the condition assessment is currently not available, regular inspections have been conducted, with the last inspection dating back to September 2012, ensuring the dam's continued functionality and safety for visitors and the surrounding ecosystem.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Old Five Lake Dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of human engineering and natural landscapes, providing a valuable recreational resource while maintaining a balance with the environment. As a privately owned earth dam with buttress core types, it showcases the importance of responsible stewardship and regulatory oversight in managing water resources for both present and future generations. Whether exploring its waters or admiring its structural design, Old Five Lake Dam serves as a captivating example of the harmonious coexistence between humans and nature in the realm of water management and conservation.
Year Completed |
1945 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB LITTLERS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
40 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
35 |
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.
Old Five Lake Dam