Peabody Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Peabody Lake, located in Beardstown, Illinois, is a private water resource regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.


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Summary

This Earth dam, completed in 1965, stands at a height of 65 feet and has a storage capacity of 168 acre-feet. The lake serves various purposes, with a primary function classified as "Other" and a spillway width of 32 feet.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Peabody Lake is subject to moderate risk, with a risk assessment rating of 3 out of 5. The dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Available," with the last inspection conducted in May 2016. The emergency action plan status and risk management measures are also unspecified, indicating potential areas for improvement in safety and preparedness protocols.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Peabody Lake offers a fascinating case study in dam infrastructure and risk management. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century and its location in the scenic Schuyler County, this private reservoir on the tributary of Sugar Creek provides a valuable insight into the intersection of human intervention and natural resources in the dynamic landscape of Illinois.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

330

Dam Height

65

River Or Stream

TRIB SUGAR CREEK

Nid Storage

168

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

65
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.