R. Johnson Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

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Summary

Johnson Pond Dam, located in Biggsville, Illinois, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS in 1970. The dam is primarily used for fish and wildlife pond purposes, as well as recreation. With a height of 26 feet and a length of 150 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 36 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3 acres. It is regulated and inspected by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, with a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment.

Situated on Henderson Creek's South Fork, R. Johnson Pond Dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in Warren County, Illinois. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 30 feet, and its foundations are made of soil while the core is constructed with stone. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, with the last inspection conducted in July 2015. The dam has a designated emergency action plan (EAP) for potential risks, but the details regarding its preparation and adherence to guidelines are not specified.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, R. Johnson Pond Dam offers a fascinating insight into the intersection of infrastructure, conservation, and recreation. Though privately owned, the dam's significance in maintaining the local ecosystem and providing recreational opportunities cannot be understated. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the management and upkeep of structures like R. Johnson Pond Dam are essential for preserving the environment and ensuring the safety of surrounding communities. With its moderate risk assessment and low hazard potential, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of evolving climatic challenges.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

HENDERSON CREEK S S FORK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Drainage Area

0.15

Nid Storage

36

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.