Lake Vermilion Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 26, 2025
Lake Vermilion Dam, located in Danville, Illinois, on the North Fork Vermilion River, is a privately owned structure designed by Mead & Seastone Consulting.
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Summary
Completed in 1925, this earth dam stands at a height of 45 feet and stretches 645 feet in length, serving primarily as a water supply source. With a maximum storage capacity of 15,352 acre-feet and a normal storage of 4,641 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.
The dam's spillway, with a width of 152 feet, is of the controlled type, ensuring efficient regulation of water flow. While the dam has a high hazard potential, its condition assessment is currently not available. Despite having no associated locks, Lake Vermilion Dam is subject to regular inspection, with a risk assessment rating it as very high. With a risk management plan in place, the dam continues to be a vital asset for water resource management in Vermilion County, Illinois.
Lake Vermilion Dam's impressive history and engineering make it a notable landmark in the region, standing as a testament to the importance of water resource management and infrastructure development. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, structures like Lake Vermilion Dam play a critical role in ensuring a sustainable water supply for communities and ecosystems alike. With ongoing regulatory oversight and risk management measures, Lake Vermilion Dam remains a key player in safeguarding the water resources of Vermilion County for generations to come.
Year Completed |
1925 |
Dam Length |
645 |
Dam Height |
45 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH FORK VERMILION RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
608 |
Drainage Area |
320 |
Nid Storage |
15352 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
45 |
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.
Lake Vermilion Dam