Bernadotte Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Bernadotte Dam, also known as Camp Ellis Dam, is a private-owned concrete structure located in Fulton, Illinois, along the Spoon River.
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Summary
Built in 1900, this dam stands at a height of 12 feet and spans 300 feet in length, serving primarily as a water supply source. The dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Bernadotte Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. Although its condition assessment is currently not available, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are yet to be determined. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 300 feet and a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet, providing a vital resource for the surrounding community.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bernadotte Dam represents a historic and essential infrastructure for water supply in Illinois. Its location on the Spoon River, along with its efficient design and regulatory oversight by the IDNR, highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region. As efforts continue to assess and manage the dam's risk and emergency preparedness, Bernadotte Dam remains a significant structure in the management of water supply and environmental conservation efforts.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
SPOON RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Spoon River At Seville
|
161cfs |
Spoon River At London Mills
|
86cfs |
Sangamon River Near Oakford
|
356cfs |
Illinois River At Kingston Mines
|
5290cfs |
La Moine River At Colmar
|
17cfs |
La Moine River At Ripley
|
33cfs |
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.
Bernadotte Dam