Cowen Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Cowen Pond Dam, located in Peoria, Illinois, is a private earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
Constructed in 1970 by the SCS, this structure stands at 40 feet tall and spans 290 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 44 acre-feet. The dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway, 55 feet in width, and is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Cowen Pond Dam is subject to regular state inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety. The dam's risk assessment is considered moderate, with a risk rating of 3, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management measures. While the condition assessment is not currently available, the dam has a designated inspection frequency of 5 years, with the most recent inspection conducted in September 2020.
In the event of an emergency, the dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status and preparedness details are not specified. However, the structure is monitored for any potential risks, and its risk management measures are continually updated. With its tranquil setting along the Trib Spoon River, Cowen Pond Dam serves as a vital recreational resource for the community while ensuring the safety and well-being of surrounding areas.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
290 |
Dam Height |
40 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB SPOON RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
44 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
40 |
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.
Cowen Pond Dam