Schaffner Lake 1 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Schaffner Lake 1 Dam, nestled in the heart of Randolph, Illinois, is a private-owned structure that has been providing recreational opportunities for water enthusiasts since its completion in 1954.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam stands at a height of 13 feet and stretches 280 feet in length, creating a serene reservoir with a storage capacity of 155 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is recreation, offering visitors a tranquil oasis for fishing, boating, and relaxation.

Despite its low hazard potential, Schaffner Lake 1 Dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, ensuring that it meets state inspection and enforcement standards for safety and maintenance. The dam, located along the tributary Plum Creek, plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region, providing a reliable water source for both recreational and ecological purposes. With its picturesque setting and abundant storage capacity, Schaffner Lake 1 Dam serves as a vital asset for water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the area.

As water and climate enthusiasts explore the beauty of Schaffner Lake 1 Dam, they can appreciate the careful design and construction that went into creating this Earth-type structure. With its buttress core and state-regulated status, the dam exemplifies the importance of balancing recreational enjoyment with safety and sustainability. As visitors immerse themselves in the natural surroundings of this reservoir, they can witness firsthand the harmonious relationship between water resources and climate resilience, making Schaffner Lake 1 Dam a captivating destination for all who appreciate the wonders of nature.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

280

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

TRIB PLUM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

155

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

13
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.