Panama Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Panama Lake Dam, located in Montgomery County, Illinois, was completed in 1928 and serves as a recreational reservoir with a primary purpose of providing leisure activities for visitors.


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Summary

The dam is classified as an Earth dam with a height of 18 feet and a length of 423 feet, creating a storage capacity of 169 acre-feet. Despite being considered low hazard potential, the dam is regulated and inspected by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

The Panama Lake Dam is situated on Bearcat Creek and features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 10 feet. Although the dam is not associated with any federal agencies, it is under the jurisdiction of the state and is subject to regular inspections every five years. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating a level 3 risk, but specific risk management measures and emergency action plans are not currently available. While the dam's condition assessment is not reported, its location and design suggest a focus on recreational use and water resource management in the area.

Overall, Panama Lake Dam provides a valuable recreational resource for the local community in Panama, Illinois, while also serving as a crucial component of water management in the region. With its historical significance dating back to the early 20th century, the dam continues to be a focal point for outdoor activities and environmental stewardship. As climate change impacts water resources, the maintenance and safety of dams like Panama Lake Dam are essential for sustaining a healthy ecosystem and ensuring public safety for years to come.

Year Completed

1928

Dam Length

423

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TRIB BEARCAT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

169

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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.