Levings Lake Dam, located in Winnebago, Illinois, is a crucial infrastructure managed by the local government for flood risk reduction along the South Branch Kent Creek.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1935 by the Corps of Engineers, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and spans a length of 1090 feet, providing a storage capacity of 1081 acre-feet. The dam's spillway, with a width of 1108 feet, serves as an uncontrolled release point during high water events, with a maximum discharge capacity of 40693 cubic feet per second.
Despite its age, Levings Lake Dam remains in a high hazard potential condition, prompting regular inspections by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to ensure public safety. The dam's primary purpose extends beyond flood control to include recreational activities, reflecting its importance in both water resource management and community engagement. As climate change continues to impact precipitation patterns and water availability, the role of structures like Levings Lake Dam in mitigating flood risks and ensuring sustainable water management becomes increasingly vital for the resilience of the surrounding areas.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
1090 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH BRANCH KENT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
1081 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
23 |
Kishwaukee River Near Perryville
|
275cfs |
Rock River At Byron
|
4300cfs |
Pecatonica River Nr Shirland
|
990cfs |
Rock River At Rockton
|
2570cfs |
Kishwaukee River At Belvidere
|
81cfs |
South Branch Kishwaukee River Nr Fairdale Il
|
45cfs |