Windfall Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 26, 2025
Windfall Lake Dam, located in Catlin, Illinois, is a privately-owned structure built in 1964 for recreational purposes along Windfall Creek.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and has a length of 300 feet, with a storage capacity of 189 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and is inspected regularly to ensure its safety.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Windfall Lake Dam is considered a relatively safe structure. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a spillway width of 79 feet. While the condition assessment is not available, the dam is inspected every five years to monitor its integrity. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose for recreation in the area, offering a picturesque backdrop for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.
Overall, Windfall Lake Dam is a vital part of the local landscape in Vermilion County, Illinois, providing both recreational opportunities and a source of water storage. With its controlled state jurisdiction and regular inspections, the dam remains a reliable structure for the community. As a key feature along Windfall Creek, the dam symbolizes the intersection of human engineering and natural resources, making it a fascinating site for those interested in water management and climate dynamics.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
WINDFALL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
189 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
14 |
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.
Windfall Lake Dam