Eagle Ridge West Pond Dam, located in Jo Daviess County, Illinois, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1997. With a height of 66 feet and a length of 450 feet, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, creating a surface area of 1.5 acres and a storage capacity of 26 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Longhollow Creek and is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk assessment due to its location and characteristics. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 12 feet, and outlet gates are also uncontrolled. The last inspection conducted in August 2020 found the condition assessment to be not available, indicating a need for further evaluation. While there are no associated structures or locks, the dam poses a potential risk that warrants ongoing monitoring and management to ensure the safety of the surrounding area and downstream communities.

Overall, Eagle Ridge West Pond Dam represents both a recreational asset and a potential risk factor in the water resource and climate landscape of Illinois. With its unique design and purpose, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proper maintenance and oversight in managing water infrastructure for the benefit of both people and the environment. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to stay informed and engaged in the maintenance and regulation of structures like Eagle Ridge West Pond Dam to ensure safe and sustainable water management practices for future generations.