Bleyar Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bleyar Lake Dam, located in Carbondale, Illinois, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.


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Summary

Built in 1974, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a length of 590 feet. The dam's maximum storage capacity is 153 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 115 acre-feet. It is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance.

The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 39 feet, and it poses a low hazard potential. The risk assessment categorizes it as moderate, with a risk management plan yet to be specified. The dam has not had a condition assessment available, but it is inspected every five years to maintain its structure and function. Despite its private ownership, Bleyar Lake Dam plays a crucial role in providing fire protection and supporting aquatic life in the area.

Overall, Bleyar Lake Dam serves as a vital resource in Williamson County, Illinois, supporting the local ecosystem and providing essential functions for the community. With its strategic location on the Trib Caney Branch Creek, the dam contributes to water management efforts and ensures the safety and well-being of residents in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and monitoring the operations of dams like Bleyar Lake Dam are crucial for sustainable water management practices and environmental conservation efforts.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

590

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TRIB CANEY BRANCH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

153

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
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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.