Hickory Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hickory Lake Dam in Grundy, Illinois, is a private dam situated on the East Fork Nettle Creek, completed in 2002 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

With a dam height of 12 feet and a length of 80 feet, it has a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and serves a drainage area of 15 square miles. The dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and is subject to state inspection, permitting, and enforcement, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations.

Despite its low hazard potential, Hickory Lake Dam underwent its last inspection in May 2019, with a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures are not currently available, suggesting a need for ongoing monitoring and preparedness. Located within the Chicago District, the dam is integral to the local community in Morris, providing recreational opportunities while also requiring careful oversight to mitigate any potential risks associated with its operation. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Hickory Lake Dam a fascinating case study in private dam management and regulatory compliance in Illinois.

Year Completed

2002

Dam Length

80

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

EAST FORK NETTLE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Drainage Area

15

Nid Storage

50

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.