Lake Emmett Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 23, 2025
Lake Emmett Dam, located in Evansville, Illinois, stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1949, this private earth dam serves primarily for recreation, providing a serene oasis for water enthusiasts in Monroe County. With a height of 23 feet and a storage capacity of 154 acre-feet, Lake Emmett Dam plays a vital role in regulating the flow of the tributary Horse Creek.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Lake Emmett Dam is subject to regular state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity. With its moderate risk assessment rating, Lake Emmett Dam serves as a focal point for climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of water resources, infrastructure, and risk management.
As a recreational hub in the St. Louis District, Lake Emmett Dam offers a picturesque setting for outdoor activities while also raising awareness about the importance of sustainable water use and dam safety. While its condition assessment may not be readily available, the dam's historical significance and environmental impact underscore the need for continued vigilance in managing our water resources in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
310 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB HORSE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
154 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Richland Creek Near Hecker
|
13cfs |
Kaskaskia River At New Athens
|
408cfs |
Silver Creek Near Freeburg
|
33cfs |
Martigney Creek Near Arnold
|
0cfs |
Mattese Creek Near Mattese
|
2cfs |
Mississippi River At Chester
|
82900cfs |
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.
Lake Emmett Dam