John Surgeon Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
John Surgeon Pond Dam, also known as Surgeon Pond, is a privately owned structure located in Nutwood, Illinois.
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Summary
Constructed in 1970 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and stretches 250 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 56 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including recreation and other activities, and is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
Situated on TR- Sugar Hollow Creek W, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in Jersey County, Illinois. With a spillway width of 15 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 133 cubic feet per second, John Surgeon Pond Dam helps control water flow and mitigate flood risks in the area. Despite its undetermined hazard potential and limited condition assessment data, the dam remains operational and subject to periodic inspections by state authorities.
Water enthusiasts and climate advocates can appreciate the significance of John Surgeon Pond Dam as a key infrastructure supporting the local ecosystem. Its primary purpose extends beyond flood control to include recreational opportunities for the surrounding community. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the presence of well-maintained dams like John Surgeon Pond serves as a crucial asset in ensuring water security and resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR- SUGAR HOLLOW CREEK W |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Drainage Area |
0.47 |
Nid Storage |
56 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
John Surgeon Pond Dam