Central Illinois Public Service Company Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Central Illinois Public Service Company Lake Dam, located in Effingham, Illinois, serves as a crucial water supply source for the region.


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Summary

Constructed in 1930, this earth dam stands at 35 feet high and spans 419 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 341 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.

The dam's spillway, with a width of 30 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for a maximum discharge of 850 cubic feet per second. The hazard potential of the dam is considered significant, with a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its age, the Central Illinois Public Service Company Lake Dam continues to provide vital water resources to the surrounding area, showcasing the importance of proper maintenance and regulation of our water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

As a local government-owned structure, this dam plays a crucial role in the water supply network of the region, contributing to the resilience of the community in the face of potential climate challenges. With a focus on water supply as its primary purpose, the dam's significance lies in its ability to store and regulate water flow, ensuring a stable and reliable water source for residents and businesses in the area. The dam's design, construction, and ongoing monitoring highlight the importance of sustainable water resource management in the context of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

419

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TRIB LITTLE WABASH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

341

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

35
       
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.