White Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

White Lake Dam, also known as Homer White Lake Dam, is a private structure located in Lake County, Illinois.


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Summary

Completed in 1964, this Earth dam stands at a height of 11 feet and has a length of 650 feet. Its primary purpose is for recreation, with a storage capacity of 217 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 129 acre-feet. Situated on the TRIB HASTINGS CREEK offstream, the dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and is subject to state inspections and enforcement.

Despite its low hazard potential, White Lake Dam poses a moderate risk due to its age and lack of available condition assessment data. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has no outlet gates. While it has not undergone recent modifications, it is inspected every five years to ensure its structural integrity. Although the dam has no associated locks, it serves as a recreational water resource for the community, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities.

Located in a picturesque setting, White Lake Dam provides both locals and visitors with a tranquil escape and a chance to appreciate the beauty of the surrounding area. As a privately owned structure, it plays a vital role in supporting recreational activities in the region while also serving as a reminder of the importance of proper maintenance and oversight to ensure the safety and sustainability of our water resources in the face of changing climates.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

650

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

TRIB HASTINGS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

217

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

11
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.