Castle Ridge Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Castle Ridge Lake Dam, located in Madison County, Illinois, stands as a testament to the innovative engineering expertise of HURST-ROSCHE ENGINEERS, INC.


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Summary

This private dam, completed in 2002, serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene oasis for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike. With a height of 42 feet and a length of 875 feet, this earth-core dam boasts a storage capacity of 209 acre-feet and a surface area of 14 acres, making it a vital water management infrastructure in the region.

The dam, situated on TRIB MILL CREEK, falls under the regulatory jurisdiction of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment remains at a moderate level, indicating proactive risk management measures in place. With an uncontrolled spillway and no outlet gates, Castle Ridge Lake Dam poses both challenges and opportunities for maintaining its operational efficiency and safety standards amidst changing climate conditions.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, Castle Ridge Lake Dam stands as a critical structure in the St. Louis District, providing both recreational benefits and water management functions. With its strategic location in Lebanon, Illinois, and a strong foundation on soil, this dam serves as a vital asset for the community while highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

2002

Dam Length

875

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

TRIB MILL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Drainage Area

0.17

Nid Storage

209

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

42
       
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.