Lake Pauline Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Effingham, Illinois, the Lake Pauline Dam is a privately owned structure designed by Clyde Nash & K.
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Summary
C. Daniels in 1951 for recreational purposes. The dam stands at a height of 38 feet and has a length of 380 feet, providing a storage capacity of 471 acre-feet. Situated on the Trib Little Wabash River, the dam's primary purpose is to offer recreational opportunities for water enthusiasts in the area.
Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), the Lake Pauline Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure safety and compliance with regulatory standards. The dam's hazard potential is deemed significant, with a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite the lack of available condition assessment data, the dam continues to serve as a popular location for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking, attracting visitors from across the region.
With its picturesque setting and ample storage capacity, Lake Pauline Dam remains a vital water resource for the community, offering both recreational enjoyment and environmental benefits. As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the area, they can appreciate the dam's contribution to local water management efforts and its role in providing a sustainable and enjoyable outdoor experience for all who visit.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
380 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB LITTLE WABASH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
471 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
38 |
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.
Lake Pauline Dam