Barnes Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wildwood Lake Dam Lake Tanglewood Dam
Last Updated: January 2, 2026
Barnes Lake Dam, located in Lacon, Illinois, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1957, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and spans 410 feet in length. Situated on the TRIB ILLINOIS RIVER, the dam has a storage capacity of 89 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 37 acre-feet. The spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 66 feet.
Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), Barnes Lake Dam poses a significant hazard potential and has a moderate risk assessment rating. Although the condition assessment is currently not available, the dam undergoes inspection every three years to ensure its safety and functionality. The emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures for the dam are also not specified in the data.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Barnes Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in the realm of dam infrastructure and recreational water management. With its historic construction date, unique design features, and regulatory oversight by the IDNR, this dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of human activity, environmental stewardship, and public safety in the context of water resource management in Illinois.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
410 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB ILLINOIS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
89 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
23 |
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.
Barnes Lake Dam