Vernor Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: East Fork Lake Dam Webber Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Vernor Lake Dam, located in Olney, Illinois, was completed in 1924 and serves primarily for recreational purposes and water supply.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 42 feet and stretches 820 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 972 acre-feet. Situated on the Trib Fox River, the dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a spillway width of 37 feet.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Vernor Lake Dam poses a significant hazard potential due to its condition assessment being unavailable. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has not had an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared or last revised, raising concerns about its emergency response protocols in the event of a critical situation. With a yearly inspection frequency of three times, the dam's structural integrity and safety are closely monitored to prevent any potential risks.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Vernor Lake Dam to be a fascinating structure, offering insights into the management and regulation of dams for both recreational and water supply purposes. As a key feature in Richland County, Illinois, the dam's historical significance and functional importance make it a noteworthy subject for further study and consideration in the realm of water resource management and climate adaptation strategies.
Year Completed |
1924 |
Dam Length |
820 |
Dam Height |
42 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB FOX RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
45 |
Drainage Area |
0.4 |
Nid Storage |
972 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
42 |
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.
Vernor Lake Dam