Eldorado Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Eldorado Reservoir Dam, also known as Karel Park Lake Dam, is a public utility structure located in Muddy, Illinois.
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Summary
Completed in 1920, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans 1200 feet in length, serving primarily as a water supply source. With a storage capacity of 1712 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in Saline County, Illinois.
Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Eldorado Reservoir Dam is regulated and inspected by state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's spillway, with a width of 100 feet, is uncontrolled in nature, allowing for a maximum discharge of 2778 cubic feet per second. The dam's hazard potential is considered significant, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the intricate details of Eldorado Reservoir Dam, from its historical significance to its impact on the local environment. As a key infrastructure for water supply in the region, this dam serves as a vital resource for the community while also posing challenges in terms of potential hazards and risk management. With its unique design and regulatory oversight, Eldorado Reservoir Dam continues to play a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in Saline County, Illinois.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
1200 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB WOLF CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
145 |
Drainage Area |
2.1 |
Nid Storage |
1712 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Eldorado Reservoir Dam