Wildwood Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 2, 2026
Wildwood Lake Dam, located in Henry, Illinois on Shaw Creek, was completed in 1969 and serves as a recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
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Summary
Managed by a private owner, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 84 feet and stretches 1385 feet in length. With a maximum storage capacity of 9424 acre-feet and a drainage area of 12.4 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water resource management in the area.
Despite its important role, Wildwood Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential and has a moderate risk assessment rating. Although the condition assessment is not available, the dam undergoes regular inspections by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a maximum discharge capacity of 8560 cubic feet per second. With its scenic surroundings and recreational opportunities, Wildwood Lake Dam is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and serves as a key feature in the local water infrastructure.
As climate change continues to impact water resources, the management and maintenance of dams like Wildwood Lake Dam become increasingly important. With its location in Marshall County, Illinois, and its association with the Rock Island District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Wildwood Lake Dam stands as a testament to the vital role that infrastructure plays in water resource management and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
1385 |
Dam Height |
84 |
River Or Stream |
SHAW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
218 |
Drainage Area |
12.4 |
Nid Storage |
9424 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
84 |
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.
Wildwood Lake Dam