Lake Warren Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Lake Warren Dam, located in Warren County, Illinois, was completed in 1952 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
This earth dam, standing at a height of 38 feet and stretching 555 feet in length, holds a maximum storage capacity of 997 acre-feet of water with a normal storage level of 656 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the Trib Cedar Creek and is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
Despite its low hazard potential, Lake Warren Dam has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, suggesting the need for ongoing monitoring and management measures. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with the last inspection conducted in 2014 and scheduled every five years. While the condition assessment is currently not available, it is essential for water resource and climate enthusiasts to stay informed about the dam's safety protocols and emergency response plans.
For those interested in water resource management and climate resilience, Lake Warren Dam offers a fascinating case study in the intersection of recreation and infrastructure. With its scenic location and historical significance, this dam showcases the importance of balancing human activities with environmental conservation efforts. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding the role of dams like Lake Warren in mitigating risks and ensuring public safety becomes increasingly crucial for sustainable development and community resilience.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
555 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB CEDAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
997 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Henderson Creek Near Oquawka
|
39cfs |
Pope Creek Near Keithsburg
|
30cfs |
Edwards River Near New Boston
|
40cfs |
Edwards River Near Orion
|
66cfs |
Spoon River At London Mills
|
86cfs |
Iowa River At Wapello
|
3250cfs |
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 Warren Dam