Sunset Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Barwell Lake Dam Schlipf Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Sunset Lake Dam, located in McLean County, Illinois, is a privately-owned structure built in 1975 by designer Wayne Wagner.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam, primarily used for recreation, stands at a height of 21 feet with a length of 455 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 198 acre-feet. Situated on TRIB DENMAN CREEK, the dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and undergoes state inspections and enforcement.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Sunset Lake Dam is subject to moderate risk assessment, indicating potential vulnerabilities that require management measures. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with an inspection frequency of 5 years to ensure its structural integrity. While the condition assessment is currently not available, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment suggest a need for ongoing monitoring and preparedness in case of unforeseen events.
With its picturesque location in GOODFIELD-OFFSTREAM, Sunset Lake Dam serves as a vital recreational resource while also playing a role in water management and safety within the area. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the complexities of dam infrastructure like Sunset Lake Dam can provide valuable insights into the intersection of human development and natural ecosystems, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices and risk mitigation strategies in safeguarding our water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1975 |
Dam Length |
455 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB DENMAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
198 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
Sunset Lake Dam