Absher Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 11, 2025
Absher Lake Dam, located in White, Illinois, stands as a crucial water resource and recreational site.
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Summary
Completed in 1968, this earth dam spans 565 feet in length and has a height of 15 feet, providing vital storage capacity of 78 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is recreation, offering a surface area of 12 acres for visitors to enjoy various water activities.
Managed by a private owner, the dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, ensuring compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is moderate, with a focus on risk management measures to enhance safety. With its strategic location on the tributary of Little Wabash River, Absher Lake Dam serves as a significant asset for water management and climate enthusiasts in the region.
As a focal point for water enthusiasts, Absher Lake Dam not only provides essential water storage but also offers a picturesque setting for recreation. With its uncontrolled spillway and associated structures, the dam presents a unique blend of functionality and natural beauty. Regular inspections and a commitment to risk management underscore the dedication to maintaining the dam's integrity and ensuring the safety of surrounding communities. For those passionate about water resources and climate resilience, Absher Lake Dam stands as a testament to responsible stewardship and sustainable infrastructure development in Illinois.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
565 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB LITTLE WABASH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
78 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Wabash River At Carmi
|
193cfs |
Wabash River At New Harmony
|
7140cfs |
Big Creek Near Wadesville
|
1cfs |
Bonpas Creek At Browns
|
0cfs |
Ohio River At Old Shawneetown
|
259000cfs |
Skillet Fork At Wayne City
|
6cfs |
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.
Absher Lake Dam