Keene Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Keene Lake Dam, located in Barrington, Illinois, is a gravity dam constructed in 1944 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 8 feet and a storage capacity of 113 acre-feet, the dam impounds water from Flint Creek, creating Keene Lake. Despite being privately owned, the dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular state inspections, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlets, with no associated locks or structures. While the condition assessment is not available, the last inspection in September 2014 deemed the dam to be in satisfactory condition. The risk management measures, emergency action plan, and inundation maps status are not specified, but the dam is considered to meet safety guidelines. Overall, Keene Lake Dam serves as a vital recreational resource in Cook County, Illinois, catering to water enthusiasts and climate-conscious individuals alike.

Enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate in the Barrington area can find Keene Lake Dam to be a fascinating subject of study. With its historical significance, state regulation, and moderate risk assessment, the dam provides valuable insights into the management and preservation of water resources in the region. As a gravity dam on Flint Creek, Keene Lake Dam offers a unique recreational experience while also highlighting the importance of sustainable practices for maintaining water infrastructure in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1944

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

FLINT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Nid Storage

113

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
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.