Warren Levis Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Warren Levis Dam, also known as Warren Levis Lake, is a private dam located in Lockhaven, Illinois.


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Summary

Built in 1947 by designer C. H. Sheppard, this earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet and spans a length of 271 feet along the Rocky Fork river. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam offers a storage capacity of 351 acre-feet, making it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking outdoor activities in Madison County, Illinois.

Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Warren Levis Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 56 feet, providing a means for managing water flow during periods of high rainfall. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is rated as moderate, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding community.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Warren Levis Dam offers a unique opportunity to explore a historic earth dam nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Lockhaven, Illinois. With its recreational facilities and scenic views, this privately owned dam serves as a valuable asset for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. As a well-regulated and inspected structure, Warren Levis Dam stands as a testament to the importance of responsible dam management in preserving water resources and mitigating potential risks associated with dam infrastructure.

Year Completed

1947

Dam Length

271

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

ROCKY FORK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

351

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

33
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.