Powerton Cooling Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Powerton Cooling Lake Dam in Illinois, owned privately and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, stands as an essential structure in the management of water resources and climate impact mitigation.


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Summary

Completed in 1970 by Sargent & Lundy, this earth dam with a height of 26 feet and a length of 31,200 feet serves various purposes, including providing cooling water for the Powerton Power Plant and regulating water flow in the Illinois River-offstream. With a storage capacity of 25,630 acre-feet and a surface area of 1,440 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water supply management.

The dam's significant hazard potential and moderate risk level necessitate regular inspections and emergency action planning to ensure public safety and environmental protection. While the condition assessment is not currently available, the dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates pose challenges in managing water discharge during high-flow events. Despite these risks, Powerton Cooling Lake Dam demonstrates a commitment to regulatory compliance, with inspection, permitting, and enforcement protocols in place to address any potential issues promptly.

Located in Tazewell County, Illinois, near Pekin, Powerton Cooling Lake Dam's strategic position in the state's water infrastructure highlights its importance in sustaining water resources and adapting to climate challenges. With its historical significance and ongoing role in water management, the dam serves as a critical asset for both local communities and environmental conservation efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

31200

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

ILLINOIS RIVER-OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1440

Drainage Area

2.3

Nid Storage

25630

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.