Potters Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Potters Pond Dam, located in Muddy, Illinois, is a private-owned structure designed by Dr.
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Summary
J. P. Caraness and completed in 1972. The dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a height of 22 feet and a length of 650 feet. Situated on the Middle Fork Saline River tributary, the dam has a storage capacity of 146 acre-feet, providing a tranquil water source for outdoor activities such as fishing and boating.
Despite being regulated and inspected by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Potters Pond Dam has a low hazard potential but a high risk assessment rating. The condition assessment of the dam is currently not available, and there is no emergency action plan in place. The dam does not have a spillway and is not associated with any other structures. With its picturesque surroundings and recreational opportunities, the dam is a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking a peaceful retreat in Saline County, Illinois.
While Potters Pond Dam offers a serene setting for outdoor recreation, its high risk assessment underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and longevity. As efforts continue to assess and manage potential risks associated with the dam, visitors and stakeholders can appreciate the beauty and utility of this earth-type structure in the heart of Illinois's water resources.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
650 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB MIDDLE FORK SALINE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
146 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
Potters Pond Dam