Lake Matherville Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Lake Matherville Dam, located in Mercer County, Illinois, is a local government-owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1926, the earth dam stands at a height of 37 feet and has a storage capacity of 158 acre-feet. The dam, situated on the TRIB EDWARDS RIVER, is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, indicating some level of risk associated with its operation. The structure features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with no associated locks. While the condition assessment of the dam is not available, it is subject to inspection every five years to monitor its integrity and safety. With the dam's location in the Rock Island District and the involvement of local government in its ownership and management, Lake Matherville Dam serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area.
With its historical significance dating back to the early 20th century, Lake Matherville Dam continues to play a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities for the community while also serving as a water resource for the region. As climate change impacts water availability and quality, the proper maintenance and management of dams like Lake Matherville become increasingly important to ensure the sustainability and resilience of water resources in the face of changing environmental conditions. Enthusiasts interested in water resource management and climate adaptation will find Lake Matherville Dam to be a fascinating case study of balancing recreational needs with environmental stewardship in a changing climate landscape.
Year Completed |
1926 |
Dam Length |
606 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB EDWARDS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
158 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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 Matherville Dam