Bunker Hill Old Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Located in Forest Homes, Illinois, the Bunker Hill Old Lake Dam is a local government-owned structure designed by Warren & Van Praag, Inc.
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Summary
The dam, completed in 1936, serves primarily for recreational purposes on the East Fork Wood River. Standing at a height of 22 feet and with a length of 390 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 157 acre-feet.
Despite its low hazard potential, the Bunker Hill Old Lake Dam is state-regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, with regular inspections conducted every 5 years. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 80 feet and an outlet controlled by gates. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, highlighting the need for ongoing risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the historical significance and recreational value of the Bunker Hill Old Lake Dam, as well as the importance of state regulations and inspections in maintaining its safety. With its picturesque location and functional design, the dam continues to be a vital part of the local community and a reminder of the intersection between human infrastructure and natural resources.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
390 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
EAST FORK WOOD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
157 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
Bunker Hill Old Lake Dam