Cartter Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hecks Lake Dam Sportsman Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Central City, Illinois, Cartter Pond Dam is a private-owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 11 feet and spans 312 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the TRIB SOUTH CREEK, offering a scenic spot for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.
Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Cartter Pond Dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam poses minimal danger to the surrounding area. Despite limited data on its condition assessment, the structure remains a popular destination for local residents and visitors seeking recreational opportunities in Marion County.
While Cartter Pond Dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, it also lacks certain emergency preparedness measures such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP). However, with its tranquil waters and picturesque surroundings, the dam continues to attract water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to explore the beauty of Illinois' natural landscapes.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
312 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB SOUTH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
11 |
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.
Cartter Pond Dam