Craig Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 23, 2025
Craig Lake Dam, located in Hutsonville, Illinois, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Completed in 1956, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans 361 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 156 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Craig Lake Dam is considered a vital asset for water resource management in the area. The dam controls the flow of the Trib Raccoon Creek and features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 35 feet. Despite its age, the dam is well-maintained and continues to serve its purpose effectively, offering recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.
Overall, Craig Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water infrastructure in sustaining ecosystems and providing recreational amenities. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Craig Lake Dam play a crucial role in managing water flow and ensuring the safety of surrounding communities. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance, this dam remains a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts to study and appreciate.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
361 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB RACCOON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
156 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wabash River At Riverton Ind
|
2610cfs |
North Fork Embarras River Near Oblong
|
53cfs |
Wabash River At Terre Haute
|
2380cfs |
Embarras River At Ste. Marie
|
65cfs |
Busseron Creek Near Carlisle
|
138cfs |
Embarras River At Lawrenceville
|
156cfs |
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.
Craig Lake Dam