Defrates-Shaeffer Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gross Farms Dam Roegge Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Defrates-Shaeffer Lake Dam, located in Winchester, Illinois, was completed in 1976 and serves as a recreational water resource along the TRIB SANDY CREEK.
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Summary
Owned privately, this earth dam stands at 26 feet tall and stretches 185 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 69 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike to enjoy its tranquil surroundings.
Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Defrates-Shaeffer Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its age, the dam has not undergone a recent condition assessment, though it has been inspected as recently as April 2019. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, ensuring water flow management and safety for visitors. With its picturesque location in Morgan County, Illinois, this dam remains a popular destination for outdoor recreation and environmental appreciation.
Although the dam's condition assessment is not currently available, the Illinois DNDR ensures regular inspection and enforcement measures are in place for its continued operation. With the dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, visitors can enjoy the recreational opportunities provided by Defrates-Shaeffer Lake Dam with peace of mind. As a vital water resource in the St. Louis District, this earth dam stands as a testament to the importance of managing and maintaining our natural resources for future generations of water and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
185 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB SANDY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
69 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Illinois River At Valley City
|
4670cfs |
Bay Creek At Pittsfield
|
43cfs |
Macoupin Creek Near Kane
|
20cfs |
La Moine River At Ripley
|
23cfs |
Spring Creek At Springfield
|
6cfs |
Sangamon River At Petersburg
|
199cfs |
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.
Defrates-Shaeffer Lake Dam