Omaha City Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

The Omaha City Reservoir Dam, located in Elba, Illinois, is a vital structure for water supply in the area.


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Summary

Completed in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a storage capacity of 160 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 136 acre-feet. The dam serves the important purpose of providing water to the surrounding community, ensuring a reliable water source for residents and businesses.

Managed by a public utility, the Omaha City Reservoir Dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in Gallatin County. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway and outlet gates of the dam help maintain water levels and prevent potential flooding.

Designed by R. A. Nack & Assoc., the Omaha City Reservoir Dam is a key infrastructure in the region, supporting water supply needs and contributing to the overall resilience of the community. As a significant piece of water management infrastructure, the dam is an essential component in ensuring a sustainable water supply for the area, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and oversight to safeguard this critical resource for future generations.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

966

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

TRIB BEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

160

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

22
       
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.