Smallpox Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Smallpox Creek Dam, also known as Lake Galena, is a privately owned recreational dam located in Jo Daviess, Illinois.


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Summary

Built in 1974 by Bauer Engineering Inc., this rockfill dam stands at 60 feet high and stretches 1100 feet long, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 6500 acre-feet. The dam sits on Smallpox Creek and is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance.

With a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, Smallpox Creek Dam is closely monitored for any potential safety issues. Its spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 273 feet, and the dam does not feature any outlet gates or associated locks. Despite its remote location, the dam poses a risk to downstream areas in the event of a breach or failure. Emergency action plans were last revised in 1990, showcasing the need for updated measures to mitigate risks and ensure the safety of surrounding communities.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Smallpox Creek Dam serves as a significant recreational structure in Illinois, offering opportunities for water-based activities and wildlife habitat. However, its aging infrastructure and high hazard potential highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to prevent any potential threats to public safety and the environment. As climate change impacts continue to affect water resources, the resilience and safety of dams like Smallpox Creek become increasingly vital for sustainable water management and community protection.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

1100

Dam Height

60

River Or Stream

SMALLPOX CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Nid Storage

6500

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

60
       
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.