East Branch Fargo Creek Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dixon Sherman Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
The East Branch Fargo Creek Dam in Dixon, Illinois, is a key structure designed by the Division of Water Resources to reduce flood risk in the area.
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Summary
Completed in 1997, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and spans 1480 feet along the East Branch Fargo Creek. With a storage capacity of 198 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow in the region.
Located in Lee County, Illinois, the East Branch Fargo Creek Dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. With a spillway width of 157 feet and a hazard potential rated as high, this dam is equipped to handle significant water discharge events. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose of flood risk reduction effectively.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the East Branch Fargo Creek Dam offers a fascinating example of how infrastructure can be designed to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events. With a moderate risk assessment rating and a history of successful operation since its completion, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of proactive water management strategies in safeguarding communities against flooding and other water-related hazards.
Year Completed |
1997 |
Dam Length |
1480 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
EAST BRANCH FARGO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.9 |
Nid Storage |
198 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Elkhorn Creek Near Penrose
|
44cfs |
Rock River At Como
|
3350cfs |
Rock River At Byron
|
4300cfs |
Big Bureau Creek At Princeton
|
8cfs |
Pecatonica River At Freeport
|
723cfs |
Kishwaukee River Near Perryville
|
275cfs |
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.
East Branch Fargo Creek Dam