Sangchris Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Located in Pawnee, Illinois, Sangchris Lake Dam is a privately owned structure that serves multiple purposes, including recreation and water supply.
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Summary
Built in 1967 by HARZA ENGINEERING CO., this earth dam spans 1650 feet in length and stands at a height of 55 feet, with a storage capacity of 73,000 acre-feet and a surface area of 2800 acres.
Situated on the TRIB SOUTH FORK SANGAMON RIVER, Sangchris Lake Dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and is inspected regularly to ensure its safety. With a spillway width of 1100 feet and a maximum discharge of 50,000 cubic feet per second, this dam has a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its risk level, Sangchris Lake Dam continues to provide essential water resources while offering recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy.
As a key feature in the St. Louis District, Sangchris Lake Dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region. Its strategic location and design make it a significant asset for both water enthusiasts and climate advocates, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring these critical infrastructure projects for the benefit of the community and the environment.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
1650 |
Dam Height |
55 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB SOUTH FORK SANGAMON RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2800 |
Drainage Area |
74 |
Nid Storage |
73000 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
55 |
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.
Sangchris Lake Dam