Youngs Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Youngs Lake Dam, also known as Old Tom Creek Structure 30, is a privately owned earth dam located in Biggsville, Illinois.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1956 by the USDA NRCS, this recreational dam stands at a height of 37 feet and has a length of 585 feet. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, with a storage capacity of 375 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 181 acre-feet.

Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Youngs Lake Dam is state-regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 93 feet and a low hazard potential. Although the condition assessment is listed as not available, the risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level due to its age and design type. With its picturesque location and historical significance, Youngs Lake Dam is a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts in Warren County, Illinois.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

585

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

TRIB OLD TOM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

375

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

37
       
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.