Paragon Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Paragon Lake Dam in Illinois, owned privately by Peabody Coal Co., stands as a recreational haven along Coal Creek in Christian County.
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Summary
Constructed in 1949, this earth dam with a buttress core reaches a height of 20 feet and spans a length of 2286 feet. With a storage capacity of 583 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 320 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 65 acres and serves a drainage area of 2.8 square miles.
Despite its low hazard potential, Paragon Lake Dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections, with the last one conducted in September 2014. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 40 feet and outlet gates that are also uncontrolled. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, with a rating of 3, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and management measures to ensure its safety and stability.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Paragon Lake Dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of human activity and natural ecosystems. As a recreational structure, the dam provides opportunities for leisure and enjoyment, but its presence along Coal Creek highlights the importance of responsible stewardship and sustainable practices to protect both the environment and the communities that rely on these water resources. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, Paragon Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the complex relationship between infrastructure development, water management, and environmental conservation in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
2286 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
COAL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
65 |
Drainage Area |
2.8 |
Nid Storage |
583 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Paragon Lake Dam