Owens Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Shaw Lake Dam Brighton Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Located in Macoupin, Illinois, the Owens Lake Dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity and a commitment to recreation.
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Summary
This private-owned earth dam, with a height of 33 feet and a length of 310 feet, serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering an opportunity for visitors to enjoy the beauty of nature and the tranquility of the surrounding area. Despite being unlisted for its foundation type, the dam's buttress core design adds to its structural integrity.
While the Owens Lake Dam presents a high hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating, it is regularly inspected by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, coupled with its location along the West Fork Wood River, contributes to its unique features, making it an essential part of the water resource infrastructure in the region. With Rodney Davis as the congressional representative overseeing the area, the Owens Lake Dam remains a key component of the local environment.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Owens Lake Dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of human intervention and natural landscapes. As a recreational structure in Brighton, Illinois, it serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between environmental conservation and the need for human enjoyment. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance, the dam continues to play a vital role in the community's water management efforts, showcasing the importance of sustainable practices in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Dam Length |
310 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB WEST FORK WOOD R |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
33 |
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.
Owens Lake Dam