Brooks Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 26, 2025

Brooks Lake Dam in Crawford County, Illinois, was completed in 1950 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam, classified as an Earth type dam with a buttress core, stands at a height of 29 feet and spans a length of 520 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 485 acre-feet. Located on the west branch of Honey Creek, the dam offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing and boating, making it a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore.

Managed by a private owner, Brooks Lake Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. While the condition assessment is not available at the moment, the dam is inspected every 5 years to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its age, Brooks Lake Dam continues to serve its recreational purpose while maintaining a responsible approach to risk management and emergency preparedness.

Located in a picturesque setting in the city of Lawrenceville, Brooks Lake Dam offers a peaceful retreat for visitors to enjoy nature and water-based activities. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance efforts, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of preserving water resources for future generations. For water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to appreciate the intersection of engineering and natural beauty, Brooks Lake Dam is a must-visit destination in Illinois.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

520

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

TRIB WEST BRANCH HONEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

965

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

29
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.