Buck Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Buck Lake Dam, located in DeKalb, Illinois, is a privately owned structure that has been in operation since 1971.


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Summary

Designed by DEGRAFF, LOOS & ASSOCIATES, the dam stands at a height of 16 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes. Situated on Buck Branch, the dam has a storage capacity of 98 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 45 acre-feet.

Despite being regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), the dam has a low hazard potential and is classified as having a moderate risk assessment rating. The spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 103 feet, and the outlet gates are also uncontrolled. The dam is inspected every 5 years, with the last inspection conducted in October 2020. While the condition assessment is not available, the dam is deemed to meet safety guidelines and is equipped to handle emergency situations.

Buck Lake Dam offers a picturesque recreational spot for water and climate enthusiasts, providing a tranquil setting for outdoor activities. With its strategic location and low hazard potential, the dam serves as a vital resource for the local community, offering both leisure and safety measures for those who frequent its waters.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

125

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

BUCK BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

98

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

16
       
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.