Lake Sara Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Lake Sara Dam, located in Effingham, Illinois, stands as a vital water resource for the region.
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Summary
Built in 1957, this Earth-type dam primarily serves the purpose of recreation, offering a surface area of 586 acres for water enthusiasts to enjoy. With a maximum storage capacity of 20,392 acre-feet and a normal storage of 11,720 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in water supply for the area.
Managed by a Public Utility, Lake Sara Dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). The dam, standing at a height of 65 feet and a length of 1,625 feet, poses a significant hazard potential. Despite its age, the dam's risk assessment is moderate, with a risk rating of 3. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last one taking place in October 2020, ensuring the safety and integrity of the structure.
Situated on Blue Point Creek, Lake Sara Dam is not only a key water storage facility but also provides a picturesque recreational area for the community. With its uncontrolled spillway and significant storage capacity, the dam serves as a vital asset in managing water resources in the region. As climate change continues to impact water availability, the importance of structures like Lake Sara Dam in ensuring water supply and recreation opportunities cannot be understated.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
1625 |
Dam Height |
65 |
River Or Stream |
BLUE POINT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
586 |
Drainage Area |
12.3 |
Nid Storage |
20392 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
65 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Lake Sara Dam