Little Wabash River Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
The Little Wabash River Dam, located in Effingham, Illinois, is a vital structure for water supply in the area.
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Summary
Built in 1900, this gravity dam stands at a height of 13 feet and has a length of 103 feet. With a storage capacity of 560 acre-feet and a drainage area of 240 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing the flow of the Little Wabash River.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the dam is classified as having a low hazard potential with a moderate risk rating. Despite its age, the dam is still in operation and serves the community effectively. The structure features uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, ensuring the proper management of water levels in the river. With regular inspections and a five-year inspection frequency, the Little Wabash River Dam remains a key component of the region's water resource infrastructure, providing essential water supply for the area.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Little Wabash River Dam represents a historic and functional piece of infrastructure that highlights the importance of proper water management. As climate patterns continue to evolve, structures like the Little Wabash River Dam play a critical role in ensuring water supply reliability and flood control in the region. With a focus on risk management and maintenance, this dam serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for sustainable water resource practices to meet the challenges of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
103 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE WABASH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
6 |
Drainage Area |
240 |
Nid Storage |
560 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
13 |
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.
Little Wabash River Dam