Wildlife Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Wildlife Lake Dam, also known as Ashley Reservoir, is a local government-owned structure located in Waltonville, Illinois.
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Summary
Built in 1941 by designers Bledsoe and McCaslin, this Earth-type dam serves primarily for water supply purposes. The dam has a height of 30 feet and a length of 660 feet, with a storage capacity of 412 acre-feet and a normal storage of 142 acre-feet. It is situated on the TRIB RAYSE CREEK and falls under the regulatory oversight of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
With a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Wildlife Lake Dam is subject to regular inspections, with the last one conducted in August 2020. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a maximum discharge capacity of 1561 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the condition assessment of the dam is currently listed as "Not Available," indicating a need for further evaluation to ensure its structural integrity and safety. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wildlife Lake Dam presents an interesting case study in the management and maintenance of critical infrastructure in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1941 |
Dam Length |
660 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB RAYSE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
36 |
Drainage Area |
1.2 |
Nid Storage |
412 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.
Wildlife Lake Dam