Lake Windsor Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Lake Windsor Dam, located in Knox County, Illinois, was completed in 1965 and serves as a vital recreational resource for the community.


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Summary

Owned privately, this earth dam stands at a height of 45 feet and has a length of 650 feet, providing storage of 676 acre-feet of water. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam is situated on the TRIB SUGAR CREEK, offering a serene and picturesque environment for water and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.

Maintained by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state agency to ensure its safety and functionality. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Lake Windsor Dam has not only met regulatory guidelines but also serves as a significant landmark within the region. Despite limited information on its condition assessment, the dam continues to provide a safe and enjoyable recreational space for visitors.

As one of the essential structures within the Rock Island District, Lake Windsor Dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management. The dam's uncontrolled spillway type and outlet gates contribute to its operational efficiency, while its location in the city of ELMORE further enhances its accessibility and appeal. For those passionate about water resources and climate conservation, Lake Windsor Dam is a must-visit destination that showcases the harmonious relationship between humans and nature in preserving and utilizing freshwater ecosystems.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

650

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

TRIB SUGAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

676

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

45
       
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.