Hickory Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
Hickory Lake Dam in Pinkneyville, Illinois, is a privately owned structure designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1971 for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The earth dam, with a height of 24 feet and a length of 410 feet, impounds the waters of the Trib Locust Creek, providing a storage capacity of 127 acre-feet. The dam is state-regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, with inspections and enforcement carried out regularly to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk rating, Hickory Lake Dam is considered a safe structure that meets guidelines for emergency action plans. While the condition assessment is not available at this time, the dam is equipped with uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates. The surrounding area in Washington County, Illinois, offers recreational opportunities for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy the beauty of this man-made lake. Overall, Hickory Lake Dam serves as a vital resource for both the local community and visitors seeking outdoor activities in a picturesque setting.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
410 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB LOCUST CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
127 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Hickory Lake Dam