Tessman Farm Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Tessman Farm Pond Dam, also known as Farm Pond, is a privately owned structure located in Edgar County, Illinois.


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Summary

Built in 1973 by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS), this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and stretches 290 feet in length. The primary purpose of the dam is for recreation, providing a storage capacity of 98 acre-feet with a normal storage level of 86 acre-feet.

The dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and undergoes regular inspections, with the last one conducted in July 2020. Classified as having low hazard potential and moderate risk, Tessman Farm Pond Dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it serves as a vital component for water resource management in the area, particularly for the Trib Clear Creek watershed.

Located in the Louisville District and overseen by private ownership, Tessman Farm Pond Dam contributes to the local ecosystem and provides opportunities for recreational activities. With its stable condition and adherence to state regulations, the dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

290

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

TRIB CLEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

98

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

29
       
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.