Sandy Run Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Sandy Run Lake Dam, located in Elba, Illinois, is a privately owned earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1903, this dam stands at a height of 29 feet and has a length of 800 feet, providing a storage capacity of 529 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the tributary of Bear Creek and is under state jurisdiction and regulation by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
With a hazard potential rated as significant and a moderate risk assessment, Sandy Run Lake Dam is subject to regular inspections, with the last one conducted in June 2019. Despite the lack of available information on the condition assessment, the dam's emergency action plan status, and risk management measures, it is crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and advocate for the safety and maintenance of this vital infrastructure. As a recreational dam, it plays a key role in providing water storage and outdoor activities for the local community.
As a part of the St. Louis District in Illinois, Sandy Run Lake Dam adds to the beauty and functionality of the region. With its uncontrolled spillway and significant hazard potential, it is essential for stakeholders to prioritize the safety and upkeep of this structure to prevent any potential risks to the surrounding area and ensure continued enjoyment of its recreational benefits.
Year Completed |
1903 |
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB BEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
529 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Wabash River At Carmi
|
117cfs |
Ohio River At Old Shawneetown
|
259000cfs |
Wabash River At New Harmony
|
6520cfs |
South Fork Saline River Nr Carrier Mills
|
4cfs |
Skillet Fork At Wayne City
|
6cfs |
Crab Orchard Creek Near Marion
|
0cfs |
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.
Sandy Run Lake Dam