Miller Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Miller Lake Dam, located in Coles County, Illinois, is a private-owned structure built in 1950 primarily for recreation purposes.
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Summary
The dam, standing at a height of 32 feet and stretching 250 feet in length, impounds the waters of the Embarass River-offstream, providing a maximum storage capacity of 57 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is regulated and inspected by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Despite its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, Miller Lake Dam has not undergone any significant modifications since its construction. The dam poses minimal risk to surrounding areas due to its low hazard potential and the absence of a current condition assessment. While emergency action plans and risk management measures are not readily available, the dam's condition is regularly monitored, with inspections conducted every five years to maintain its integrity and safety. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Miller Lake Dam serves as a noteworthy example of a privately-owned earth dam designed for recreational purposes in the state of Illinois.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
EMBARASS RIVER-OFFSTREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
57 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Miller Lake Dam