Pont-Ca Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 11, 2025
Pont-Ca Lake Dam, located in Carmi-Offstream, Illinois, is a private dam primarily used for recreation and water supply purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1949, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans a length of 1050 feet, with a storage capacity of 320 acre-feet. Situated on the tributary of the Little Wabash River, the dam also serves as a popular recreational spot with a surface area of 25 acres for visitors to enjoy.
Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Pont-Ca Lake Dam has a significant hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections for safety compliance. With a drainage area of 474 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 1895 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
In the event of an emergency, the dam lacks an Emergency Action Plan (EAP), raising concerns about preparedness and response protocols. However, with a moderate risk assessment rating, there is room for improvement in risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards. Pont-Ca Lake Dam stands as a vital infrastructure for both water supply and recreational activities, highlighting the importance of sustainable management practices to safeguard this essential resource for future generations.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
1050 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB LITTLE WABASH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
25 |
Drainage Area |
474 |
Nid Storage |
320 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Wabash River At Carmi
|
193cfs |
Wabash River At New Harmony
|
7140cfs |
Big Creek Near Wadesville
|
1cfs |
Bonpas Creek At Browns
|
0cfs |
Ohio River At Old Shawneetown
|
259000cfs |
Skillet Fork At Wayne City
|
6cfs |
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.
Pont-Ca Lake Dam