Carbondale Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Carbondale Reservoir Dam, located in Jackson County, Illinois, was completed in 1926 and serves as a vital water resource for the region.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam also helps with water supply, storing up to 480 acre-feet of water. The dam, standing at a height of 33 feet and a length of 2400 feet, creates a surface area of 160 acres and regulates the flow of the Piles Fork river.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Carbondale Reservoir Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its design and location. Despite its age, the dam has undergone regular inspections, with the last one conducted in July 2020. While the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, emergency action plans were prepared in 1992 to mitigate risks associated with potential failures.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Carbondale Reservoir Dam offers a fascinating look into the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. As a key player in the region's water management system, the dam provides valuable insights into how we can balance the needs of recreation, water supply, and environmental conservation in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1926

Dam Length

2400

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

PILES FORK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

160

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

1940

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

33
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.