Carlson Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Jones Pond Dam Lake Piasa Dam
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Carlson Lake Dam, located in Alton, Illinois, serves as a vital recreational resource in the area.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1970, this earth dam stands at a height of 47 feet and has a storage capacity of 103 acre-feet. The dam, situated on the TRIB PIASA CREEK, is primarily used for recreation purposes, providing a serene and picturesque setting for water enthusiasts to enjoy various activities.
Managed by a private owner, Carlson Lake Dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, the dam poses minimal risk to the surrounding area. While its condition assessment is not currently available, the dam continues to be a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, offering a peaceful retreat and a chance to connect with nature in the heart of Jersey County, Illinois.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Carlson Lake Dam presents an interesting case study in dam management and recreational usage. With its uncontrolled spillway and buttress core type, the dam exemplifies a balance between human development and environmental conservation. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams like Carlson Lake Dam becomes increasingly crucial to ensure the safety and sustainability of our water infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
295 |
Dam Height |
47 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB PIASA CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
103 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
47 |
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.
Carlson Lake Dam