Oakland Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Oakland Lake Dam, also known as Lake Oakland, is a vital water resource structure located in Coles County, Illinois.
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Summary
Managed by the local government, this earth dam was completed in 1937 and serves the primary purpose of water supply. With a height of 18 feet and a length of 411 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 555 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 41 acres. The dam regulates the flow of Hog Branch Creek, with a maximum discharge capacity of 1608 cubic feet per second.
Despite its age, Oakland Lake Dam remains in significant hazard potential due to its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. The dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular state inspections. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, with a rating of 3 on a scale of 1 to 5. While the condition assessment is not available, the dam's emergency action plan status, inundation maps, and risk management measures require further evaluation and improvement. Overall, Oakland Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water supply management in the region and highlights the importance of sustainable infrastructure for climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
411 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
HOG BRANCH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
41 |
Drainage Area |
15.9 |
Nid Storage |
555 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Oakland Lake Dam