Briney Lake 1 Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Briney Lake 2 Dam Atkins Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Briney Lake 1 Dam, located in Schuyler, Illinois, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1971.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earth dam, with a height of 36 feet and length of 460 feet, serves primarily for recreational purposes and is state-regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The dam has a storage capacity of 301 acre-feet and a surface area of 9 acres, making it a vital water resource for the local community.
With a high hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, Briney Lake 1 Dam is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's spillway, with a width of 22 feet, is uncontrolled, and it has an uncontrolled outlet gate. Despite its risk assessment, the dam is a popular spot for recreation, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water-related activities. Its location on Trib Elm Creek adds to its appeal for both water resource and climate enthusiasts.
As a key part of the Rock Island District and the broader water management system in Illinois, Briney Lake 1 Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels and providing recreational opportunities for the community. With its unique design and significant storage capacity, this dam is a focal point for both water resource management and outdoor recreation in Schuyler County.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
460 |
Dam Height |
36 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB ELM CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
301 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
36 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sangamon River Near Oakford
|
356cfs |
Spoon River At Seville
|
161cfs |
La Moine River At Ripley
|
33cfs |
Sangamon River At Petersburg
|
146cfs |
Salt Creek Near Greenview
|
159cfs |
La Moine River At Colmar
|
17cfs |
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.
Briney Lake 1 Dam