Vandalia Municipal Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Vandalia Municipal Reservoir Dam, located in Fayette County, Illinois, is a vital water resource and recreational hub for the community.
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Summary
Built in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 50 feet and spans a length of 1600 feet, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 13,460 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities, while also serving as a water supply source for the region.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the Vandalia Municipal Reservoir Dam has a high hazard potential, prompting regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and public safety. The dam's spillway, with a width of 112 feet, is designed as uncontrolled, allowing for the safe release of excess water during periods of heavy rainfall. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the area, contributing to the overall sustainability of the region's water resources.
With its picturesque setting along Bear Creek, the Vandalia Municipal Reservoir Dam is not only a key infrastructure for water storage and flood control but also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Its significant storage capacity, coupled with its recreational amenities, makes it a valuable asset for the community, highlighting the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in this region of Illinois.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
1600 |
Dam Height |
50 |
River Or Stream |
BEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
660 |
Drainage Area |
25 |
Nid Storage |
13460 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
50 |
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.
Vandalia Municipal Reservoir Dam