Potthast Lake Dam, located in Germantown, Illinois, was completed in 1974 and is primarily used for recreation purposes.
Wind
Humidity
The dam is privately owned and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. With a height of 15 feet and a length of 640 feet, the earth dam provides a maximum storage capacity of 152 acre-feet, making it a significant water resource in the area.
Managed by the USDA NRCS, Potthast Lake Dam is classified as an earth dam with a buttress core type. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and high hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating. The last inspection in June 2018 revealed a lack of available condition assessment data, suggesting a need for further evaluation and potential risk management measures.
The dam's location on the Tributary of Locust Fork River and its association with the St. Louis District of the USACE make it a vital component of the region's water infrastructure. As climate change intensifies, the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams like Potthast Lake Dam becomes increasingly crucial for ensuring water resource sustainability and mitigating potential risks to surrounding communities.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
640 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB LOCUST FORK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
152 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |