Lake Of Dreams Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Lake of Dreams Dam, located in Jersey, Illinois, is a privately-owned structure designed by Hennegan & Associates with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1992, this earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and spans a length of 420 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 290 acre-feet and a normal storage of 260 acre-feet. Situated on the TRIB OTTER CREEK, this dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.

Managed and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Lake of Dreams Dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk assessment due to its age and limited inspection data available. The last inspection took place in September 2014, with an inspection frequency of 5 years. While the condition assessment is not available, the dam is currently in operation and meets state regulatory requirements for inspection, permitting, and enforcement.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake of Dreams Dam offers a unique recreational opportunity within the Kansas City District. With its serene location and ample storage capacity, this dam serves as a vital resource for both locals and visitors alike. While the dam's risk assessment is moderate, ongoing management and monitoring ensure the safety and integrity of this important infrastructure for the community.

Year Completed

1992

Dam Length

420

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TRIB OTTER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Drainage Area

0.33

Nid Storage

290

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

35
       
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.