Willaredt Lake Dam 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Willaredt Lake Dam 1, located in Madison County, Illinois, serves as a vital resource for fish and wildlife conservation as well as recreational activities.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1968 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and spans 500 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 130 acre-feet and a surface area of 10 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing the flow of the TR-Silver Creek, providing habitat for aquatic species and offering a space for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.
Managed by a private entity, the dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, ensuring compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. Although classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is subject to regular inspections to maintain its structural integrity and ensure the safety of surrounding communities. With a moderate risk assessment rating, measures are in place to manage any potential risks associated with the dam, highlighting the importance of proactive risk management strategies in safeguarding water resources and infrastructure.
Despite its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, Willaredt Lake Dam 1 continues to serve its primary purpose of promoting fish and wildlife conservation while offering recreational opportunities for the public. The dam's location in New Athens, Illinois, positions it within the St. Louis District, underlining its significance in the region's water resource management efforts. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the data surrounding Willaredt Lake Dam 1 showcases the intersection of environmental stewardship, infrastructure management, and recreational value that dams bring to communities across Illinois.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR- SILVER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Drainage Area |
0.09 |
Nid Storage |
130 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
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.
Willaredt Lake Dam 1
Quercus Grove Park
Vadalabene Park
Leclaire Park
Springer Woods Park
Marine City Park