Zarges Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Zarges Pond Dam, located in Wood River, Illinois, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
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Summary
Completed in 1978, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a length of 217 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 48 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including recreation, and is situated on the TR-Wood River Creek NW.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Zarges Pond Dam is a crucial component of water resource management in Macoupin County. Despite its relatively small surface area of 3 acres and drainage area of 0.16 square miles, the dam plays a significant role in controlling water flow and mitigating flood risks in the region. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates provide essential functionality for managing water levels and maintaining safety.
Although the condition assessment of Zarges Pond Dam is currently listed as "Not Available," regular inspections by the state regulatory agency ensure that the structure meets safety standards. With its strategic location and important role in water resource management, Zarges Pond Dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of private owners, government agencies, and designers in safeguarding the local community against potential risks and enhancing recreational opportunities in the area.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
217 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR- WOOD RIVER CREEK NW |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Drainage Area |
0.16 |
Nid Storage |
48 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.
Zarges Pond Dam