Dongola Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Dongola Lake Dam, located in Union, Illinois, serves as a vital water resource for the local community.


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Summary

Built in 1970, this earth dam stands at a height of 34 feet and spans a length of 610 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 1671 acre-feet. The dam primarily serves the purpose of recreation and water supply, providing a surface area of 70 acres for various activities.

Managed by the local government, Dongola Lake Dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, ensuring proper inspection and enforcement measures are in place to maintain its structural integrity. With a high hazard potential due to its location on Little Creek, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, highlighting the importance of effective risk management strategies. Despite the lack of available condition assessment data, Dongola Lake Dam remains a key infrastructure for water supply and recreational activities in the region.

As a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and climate advocates, Dongola Lake Dam offers a picturesque setting for water-related activities while also serving as a crucial component of the local ecosystem. With its uncontrolled spillway and significant drainage area of 3.6 square miles, the dam plays a pivotal role in flood control and water management. Despite its age, Dongola Lake Dam continues to be a cornerstone of water resource management in Illinois, showcasing the importance of sustainable infrastructure for future generations.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

610

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

LITTLE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

70

Drainage Area

3.6

Nid Storage

1671

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

34
       
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.