Lake Irene Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Lake Irene Dam, also known as Cripe Farm Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Schuyler County, Illinois.


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Summary

Managed by Rapps Engineering & Applied Science, this earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet and has a length of 225 feet. Its primary purpose is for recreation, offering a tranquil escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy the surrounding 8.11-acre lake.

Situated on a tributary of the Illinois River, Lake Irene Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. While the dam is state regulated and inspected, its condition assessment is currently marked as "Not Available," indicating a need for further monitoring and evaluation. The facility does not have outlet gates or associated structures, but offers a maximum storage capacity of 149 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 93 acre-feet.

Despite its remote location in Browning, Illinois, Lake Irene Dam provides a valuable recreational resource for the community. With its uncontrolled spillway and scenic surroundings, this dam serves as a reminder of the crucial role that water resources play in supporting both human activities and natural ecosystems in the region.

Dam Length

225

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

TRIB ILLINOIS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.11

Drainage Area

0.13

Nid Storage

149

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

33
       
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.