Jurgens Brothers Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Jurgens Brothers Lake Dam, also known as Wyatt Pond, is a private earth dam located in Morgan County, Illinois.


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Summary

Built in 1968 by the USDA NRCS, this recreational dam stands at 28 feet tall and spans 380 feet in length, creating a storage capacity of 121 acre-feet. Situated on Little Indian Creek, this dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking.

Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Jurgens Brothers Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam's uncontrolled spillway is 34 feet wide, and it is subject to regular inspections every five years to ensure its safety and integrity. While the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, it continues to provide recreational opportunities for the local community and visitors alike, under the jurisdiction of the IDNR.

Despite its private ownership, Jurgens Brothers Lake Dam plays a significant role in water resource management and climate resilience in the area. With its picturesque setting and vital recreational offerings, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and monitoring our water infrastructure for the enjoyment and safety of all.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

380

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

LITTLE INDIAN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

121

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.