Ginger Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Ginger Lake Dam, located in Glen Carbon, Illinois, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Constructed in 2002 by SHERRILL ASSOCIATES and GREENE & BRADF, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and spans 300 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 17.08 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.05 square miles, the dam has a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.

Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and subject to state regulations, Ginger Lake Dam plays a crucial role in controlling the flow of the TRIB JUDYS BRANCH stream. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam has been inspected regularly, with the last assessment conducted in October 2020. While the condition assessment is not available, the dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) was last revised in 2004, indicating a commitment to operational safety and risk management.

The surrounding community benefits from the recreational opportunities provided by Ginger Lake Dam, offering a serene environment for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance and potential risks associated with dams like Ginger Lake is essential for ensuring the safety and sustainability of these vital infrastructure components in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

2002

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

TRIB JUDYS BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.05

Nid Storage

17.08

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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.