Martin Family Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The Martin Family Dam, located in Bonnie, Illinois, is a private earth dam designed by Round Table Design for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at 21 feet tall and stretching 550 feet in length, this dam serves as a vital structure along the TRIB ATCHISON CREEK. With a storage capacity of 168 acre-feet and a surface area of 19 acres, the dam provides a peaceful setting for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the Martin Family Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam remains a safe and popular destination for fishing, boating, and other recreational activities. The dam has been inspected every five years, with the last assessment conducted in July 2017, ensuring that it meets regulatory standards and maintains its structural integrity.

While not a federally owned structure, the Martin Family Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Jefferson County, Illinois. With its serene surroundings and well-maintained facilities, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of private ownership in safeguarding our water resources for future generations to enjoy.

Dam Length

550

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

TRIB ATCHISON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Drainage Area

0.4

Nid Storage

168

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

21
       
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.