Spring Arbor Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Spring Arbor Lake Dam, located in DeSoto, Illinois, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

This Earth dam, with a height of 55 feet and a length of 650 feet, was completed in 1972 and sits on Sycamore Creek. It has a normal storage capacity of 1638 acre-feet and a surface area of 87 acres, serving as a popular spot for outdoor activities in the area.

Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is moderate. Emergency action plans were last revised in 1987, and the dam meets guidelines for risk management measures. With a history of moderate risk and a focus on recreation, Spring Arbor Lake Dam continues to be a vital resource for water enthusiasts and climate advocates in the region.

With its picturesque location and recreational opportunities, Spring Arbor Lake Dam offers a valuable space for outdoor enjoyment while also being subject to stringent state regulations and inspections for safety. As climate change impacts water resources, this dam serves as a critical infrastructure for managing water flow on Sycamore Creek and providing a haven for wildlife and visitors alike. As stakeholders work to balance recreation with safety and environmental concerns, Spring Arbor Lake Dam remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts in Jackson County, Illinois.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

650

Dam Height

55

River Or Stream

SYCAMORE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

87

Drainage Area

68

Nid Storage

1964

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

55
       
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.