Bass Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Woodhaven Lake Dam Lake Kakusha Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Bass Lake Dam, located in Lee County, Illinois, stands as a testament to engineering excellence with a primary purpose of providing recreational opportunities.
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Summary
Built in 1971, this earth dam spans 472 feet in length and reaches a height of 11 feet, offering a maximum storage capacity of 186 acre-feet. The dam's spillway, with a width of 35 feet, is uncontrolled, and the hazard potential is rated as low.
Maintained by a private owner, Bass Lake Dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, with state inspections and enforcement ensuring the dam's structural integrity and safety. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam has not undergone a condition assessment, and the emergency action plan status remains undisclosed. With a history of solid construction and a commitment to safety, Bass Lake Dam serves as a vital resource for the surrounding community and visitors seeking outdoor recreational opportunities in a picturesque setting.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the intricate details of Bass Lake Dam's construction, design, and regulatory oversight offer a fascinating glimpse into the balance between human intervention and natural forces. With its location along the Tributary of Green River, the dam plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the region. While the dam's risk assessment may raise concerns, ongoing inspections and enforcement measures aim to mitigate any potential hazards and ensure the continued safety of this essential infrastructure for both recreational and environmental purposes.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
472 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB GREEN RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
186 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
East Bureau Creek Near Bureau
|
2cfs |
Big Bureau Creek At Princeton
|
8cfs |
Rock River At Como
|
3350cfs |
Elkhorn Creek Near Penrose
|
44cfs |
Fox River At Dayton
|
1040cfs |
Rock River At Byron
|
4300cfs |
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.
Bass Lake Dam