Lowell Gardner Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Lowell Gardner Pond Dam, located in Quawka, Illinois, was completed in 1975 by the USDA NRCS and serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam, primarily designed for Fish and Wildlife Pond purposes, stands at a height of 26 feet and spans 200 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 31 acre-feet, the dam boasts a low hazard potential and is classified as an Earth dam with stone core types and soil foundations.
Managed by a private entity, the dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular state inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. With a drainage area of 0.26 square miles and a maximum discharge of 140 cubic feet per second, Lowell Gardner Pond Dam plays a critical role in flood control and water management in the region. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam remains a valuable asset for recreation, wildlife habitat, and water supply for the community.
Year Completed |
1975 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
HENDERSON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Drainage Area |
0.26 |
Nid Storage |
31 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Henderson Creek Near Oquawka
|
45cfs |
Edwards River Near Orion
|
66cfs |
Pope Creek Near Keithsburg
|
25cfs |
Spoon River At London Mills
|
86cfs |
Edwards River Near New Boston
|
41cfs |
Mill Creek At Milan
|
3cfs |
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.
Lowell Gardner Pond Dam