Nugent-Schpanski 6 Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Nugent-Schpanski 6 Lake Dam, located in Nutwood-Offstream, Illinois, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1956, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a length of 430 feet, providing storage for up to 89 acre-feet of water. The dam is situated on the TRIB South Fork Otter Creek and is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, Nugent-Schpanski 6 Lake Dam has not undergone a recent condition assessment. Although the dam's emergency action plan status is not available, it is equipped with uncontrolled spillways and outlets. The dam's location within Jersey County, Illinois, underscores its importance for irrigation and recreation purposes in the region, serving as a vital water resource infrastructure for the surrounding communities.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of Nugent-Schpanski 6 Lake Dam as a key infrastructure supporting agricultural activities in the area. The dam's design by the USDA NRCS and its regulation by the IDNR highlight the collaboration between federal and state agencies in managing water resources. As discussions on water security and climate resilience continue, understanding the role of dams like Nugent-Schpanski 6 Lake in ensuring sustainable water management practices becomes essential for addressing future challenges effectively.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

430

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

TRIB SOUTH FORK OTTER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Drainage Area

0.04

Nid Storage

89

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

40
       
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.