Becker Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Becker Pond Dam, located in Morgan County, Illinois, is a privately-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

Completed in 1976, this earth dam serves primarily as a fish and wildlife pond, while also supporting recreational activities. The dam has a height of 27 feet, a length of 232 feet, and a storage capacity of 25 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 16 acre-feet.

Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Becker Pond Dam is regulated and inspected by state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. It features an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 20 feet, and an outlet gate system also being uncontrolled. The dam is situated on TR- Sandy Creek and is part of the St. Louis District.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Becker Pond Dam an interesting case study, showcasing the importance of proper dam management and maintenance for both ecological and recreational purposes. The dam's presence contributes to the local ecosystem's biodiversity, providing a habitat for fish and wildlife while also offering opportunities for outdoor recreation. Its regulated status and consistent inspections ensure the safety of nearby communities and highlight the collaborative efforts between private ownership and state agencies in managing water resources effectively.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

232

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TR- SANDY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Drainage Area

0.04

Nid Storage

25

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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.