Marsh Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Marsh Lake Dam in Modena, Illinois, stands as a key recreational resource along the TRIB East Fork Spoon River.
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Summary
Built in 1965, this private-owned Earth dam boasts a height of 30 feet and a length of 270 feet, providing storage for up to 115 acre-feet of water. With a spillway width of 36 feet, the dam's uncontrolled spillway type and low hazard potential make it a safe and enjoyable destination for water enthusiasts.
Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Marsh Lake Dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with water resource management guidelines. Despite a moderate risk assessment, the dam remains a popular spot for recreation, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife observation. While its condition assessment is currently unavailable, ongoing inspections every five years help to monitor and maintain the dam's structural integrity.
Located in Stark County, Illinois, Marsh Lake Dam is a picturesque site with a rich history of providing recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike. As a vital component of the surrounding ecosystem, the dam serves as both a water storage facility and a hub for outdoor activities, contributing to the region's water resource management and climate resilience efforts. With its peaceful surroundings and well-maintained infrastructure, Marsh Lake Dam continues to be a cherished destination for water and climate enthusiasts seeking to connect with nature.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
270 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB EAST FORK SPOON RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
115 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Indian Creek Near Wyoming
|
9cfs |
Big Bureau Creek At Princeton
|
8cfs |
Illinois River At Henry
|
7830cfs |
East Bureau Creek Near Bureau
|
2cfs |
Green River Near Geneseo
|
185cfs |
Edwards River Near Orion
|
66cfs |
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.
Marsh Lake Dam