ILLINOIS RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: February 11, 2026

In Illinois, the management of water resources through dams and reservoirs is a crucial aspect of preventing floods and ensuring water supply. Recent observations from the state's water systems reveal that some dams are experiencing abnormal conditions. Typically, reservoirs such as Channel Lake near Antioch, Fox Lake near Lake Villa, and Nippersink Lake at Fox Lake have average gage heights of 4.14 feet, 3.9 feet, and 3.84 feet, respectively. These measurements help to monitor water levels and assess the need for water management actions.

Upon closer examination, the current data sets indicate a notable deviation in the expected storage levels. Channel Lake's current measurement could not be retrieved, which is abnormal and suggests a potential issue with the monitoring equipment or a reporting error. Meanwhile, both Fox Lake and Nippersink Lake exhibit gage heights significantly below their averages, at 2 feet each. Such conditions might be attributed to lower-than-expected river inflows or a reduced snowpack, leading to decreased runoff into these reservoirs. It's essential to cross-reference these findings with other data sources to ascertain the accuracy and pinpoint the causes. This information would facilitate a better understanding of the hydrological challenges facing these reservoirs and help in formulating appropriate responses to manage water levels and ensure sustainability.

Illinois has several reservoirs and dams, primarily used for flood control, municipal water supply, and recreational activities. Major reservoirs in the state include Lake Shelbyville, Lake Springfield, Lake Decatur, and Rend Lake. These reservoirs receive water from various streams and rivers, including the Kaskaskia River, Sangamon River, and the Little Wabash River. Snowpack and mountains are not significant factors in Illinois hydrology, as the state has a relatively flat landscape. However, seasonal trends can affect water levels, with higher precipitation in the spring and lower levels in the summer. Drought conditions can also impact reservoir levels, with Lake Shelbyville experiencing record low levels in 2012 due to a severe drought. Overall, Illinois' reservoirs and dams play a critical role in managing water resources for the state's population and economy.

Illinois has several reservoirs and dams, primarily used for flood control, municipal water supply, and recreational activities. Major reservoirs in the state include Lake Shelbyville, Lake Springfield, Lake Decatur, and Rend Lake. These reservoirs receive water from various streams and rivers, including the Kaskaskia River, Sangamon River, and the Little Wabash River. Snowpack and mountains are not significant factors in Illinois hydrology, as the state has a relatively flat landscape. However, seasonal trends can affect water levels, with higher precipitation in the spring and lower levels in the summer. Drought conditions can also impact reservoir levels, with Lake Shelbyville experiencing record low levels in 2012 due to a severe drought. Overall, Illinois' reservoirs and dams play a critical role in managing water resources for the state's population and economy.