Barths Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Barths Lake Dam, located in Macoupin County, Illinois, was completed in 1950 for the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
This private dam stands at a height of 29 feet and spans 320 feet in length, holding a storage capacity of 91 acre-feet. Situated along the TRIB PADDOCK CREEK, the dam's construction falls under the jurisdiction of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure safety and compliance.
While the dam has a low hazard potential, it has a moderate risk classification, indicating a need for risk management measures to address potential issues. Despite its age, the condition assessment of Barths Lake Dam is currently not available, and the last inspection was conducted in June 2018, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every 5 years. With a designated emergency action plan (EAP) status unknown, it is essential for stakeholders and authorities to ensure preparedness for any unforeseen events and to maintain the dam's integrity for ongoing recreational use and environmental protection.
As a vital infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in the region, Barths Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring of dams to prevent risks and ensure the safety of surrounding communities and ecosystems. With its unique design and purpose, the dam continues to be a significant feature in the landscape, offering recreational opportunities while also requiring careful attention to its structural integrity and regulatory compliance to mitigate potential hazards.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
320 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB PADDOCK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
91 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
29 |
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.
Barths Lake Dam