Griffith Farm Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Absher Lake Dam Pont-Ca Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Griffith Farm Lake Dam, located in White County, Illinois, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1964 for recreational purposes.
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Summary
With a height of 25 feet and a length of 670 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 174 acre-feet, providing a serene setting for water enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as fishing and boating. The dam is state-regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
Despite its uncontrolled spillway and significant hazard potential, Griffith Farm Lake Dam has been assessed as having a moderate risk level. The dam is situated on a tributary of the Little Wabash River, offering a picturesque backdrop for outdoor recreation in the town of Emma. Emergency action plans and risk management measures are not currently available for the dam, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and proactive measures to mitigate potential risks and safeguard the surrounding community and environment.
Managed by private owners and with no federal agency involvements, Griffith Farm Lake Dam serves as a vital recreational resource in the area, attracting visitors seeking to enjoy the tranquil waters and scenic surroundings. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure across the globe, the maintenance and monitoring of dams like Griffith Farm Lake Dam are essential to ensuring the safety and sustainability of these valuable assets for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
670 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB LITTLE WABASH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
174 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Wabash River At Carmi
|
46cfs |
Wabash River At New Harmony
|
7250cfs |
Big Creek Near Wadesville
|
1cfs |
Bonpas Creek At Browns
|
0cfs |
Ohio River At Old Shawneetown
|
259000cfs |
Skillet Fork At Wayne City
|
7cfs |
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.
Griffith Farm Lake Dam