Shoemakers Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Shoemakers Pond Dam is a privately owned structure located in Effingham, Illinois, near the city of Louisville.


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Summary

Built in 1965, this Earth dam stands at 26 feet tall and spans 350 feet in length. Its primary purpose is for recreation, with a storage capacity of 78 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 21 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Second Creek, serving as an offstream water resource for the area.

Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), Shoemakers Pond Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is categorized as moderate, emphasizing the importance of proper maintenance and management. The spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 63 feet, and the overall condition assessment is currently listed as not available. The last inspection was conducted in July 2015, with a recommended inspection frequency of every 5 years.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Shoemakers Pond Dam offers an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure and management. With its recreational focus and state-mandated regulatory oversight, this structure serves as a vital component of the local water system. As the surrounding area faces potential risks associated with moderate hazard levels, ongoing monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure the safety and longevity of this important water resource.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

SECOND CREEK-OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

78

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.