Osage Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Woodland Lake Dam Evergreen Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Osage Lake Dam in Brighton, Illinois, is a private-owned structure designed for flood risk reduction along the West Fork Wood River.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam stands at a height of 38 feet and spans 220 feet in length, serving as a vital component in managing water resources in the area. While its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, the dam's significant hazard potential underscores the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its effectiveness in safeguarding the surrounding community.
Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), Osage Lake Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state to meet safety standards. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam's condition assessment is currently unavailable, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures. With a spillway type of uncontrolled and a hazard potential deemed significant, the dam's role in water resource management and climate resilience cannot be understated.
As a critical infrastructure in the St. Louis District, Osage Lake Dam's presence underscores the interconnectedness of water resources and climate resilience. With its earth dam type and buttress core design, the structure plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and protecting the Macoupin County area. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and appreciating the significance of Osage Lake Dam is essential in promoting sustainable water management practices and enhancing community resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Dam Length |
220 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB WEST FORK WOOD R |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Osage Lake Dam