Joyces Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Joyces Lake Dam, located in Meadowbrook-Offstream, Illinois, is a private dam with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1969 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and spans a length of 275 feet. The dam, situated on the TRIB INDIAN CREEK, has a normal storage capacity of 83 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 123 acre-feet.
Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), Joyces Lake Dam is state-regulated, inspected, and enforced. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 93 feet, and its hazard potential is categorized as low. Despite a moderate risk assessment score of 3, the condition assessment of the dam is currently listed as not available, indicating a need for further evaluation.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Joyces Lake Dam offers an intriguing study in dam design and management. With its recreational focus and state oversight, this structure presents an opportunity to explore the intersection of human development and environmental conservation in the context of water resource management and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
275 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB INDIAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
123 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
24 |
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.
Joyces Lake Dam