Rend Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 12, 2026

Rend Dam, also known as Rend Lake, is a concrete dam located in Benton, Illinois, along the Big Muddy River.


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Summary

Completed in 1971 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam stands at 54 feet high and spans a length of 10,228 feet, with a storage capacity of over 600,000 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Rend Dam is flood risk reduction, while also serving purposes such as fish and wildlife pond, recreation, and water supply.

Managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Rend Dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and mitigating flood risks in the area. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is regularly monitored and inspected to ensure its structural integrity. The Corps works closely with local emergency managers and the public to raise awareness of the dam and develop emergency action plans in case of a dam-related emergency. Additionally, ongoing maintenance and repairs are performed to keep the dam functioning effectively and safely.

With a focus on risk management and public safety, the US Army Corps of Engineers at Rend Dam takes proactive measures to address flood risks associated with the dam. By prioritizing activities that reduce risks, engaging with local emergency managers, and updating emergency action plans, the Corps ensures that the dam remains a reliable and secure infrastructure for water resource management in the region.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

10228

Dam Height

54

River Or Stream

BIG MUDDY RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

18900

Hydraulic Height

49

Drainage Area

488

Nid Storage

607910

Structural Height

54

Outlet Gates

None - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

54
       
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.