Miller Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lagg Lake 1 Dam Lagg Lake 2
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Miller Lake Dam, located in Mount Vernon, Illinois, is a vital water resource structure primarily used for recreation and water supply purposes.
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Summary
Constructed in 1947, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and spans 870 feet in length, offering a maximum storage capacity of 3,510 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the picturesque Miller Lake, providing a serene environment for outdoor activities and serving as a key source of water for the surrounding area.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Miller Lake Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water quality and ensuring the safety of the community. With a high hazard potential due to its size and location, the dam is subject to regular inspections and monitoring to assess its condition and address any potential risks. Despite being classified as having a moderate risk level, the dam's emergency action plan dates back to 1992, highlighting the need for updated safety measures and protocols to mitigate any potential emergencies effectively.
Overall, Miller Lake Dam stands as a significant infrastructure asset in Jefferson County, Illinois, serving both recreational and practical purposes for the local residents. As a key component of the water supply system, this dam exemplifies the importance of sustainable water resource management and the essential role that such structures play in supporting the community's needs while safeguarding against potential hazards and emergencies.
Year Completed |
1947 |
Dam Length |
870 |
Dam Height |
40 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB CASEY FORK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
142 |
Drainage Area |
4.9 |
Nid Storage |
3510 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
40 |
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.
Miller Lake Dam