Paul Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Paul Lake Dam, located in Warren County, Illinois, serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area, with a primary purpose of recreation.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Constructed in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a storage capacity of 71 acre-feet. The dam's spillway, with a width of 64 feet, is uncontrolled, and the hazard potential is classified as low, with a moderate risk assessment.
Managed by a private owner, Paul Lake Dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, ensuring that it meets state inspection and enforcement standards. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not available, emphasizing the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to uphold its structural integrity. With a picturesque setting along the TRIB NEGRO CREEK, the dam offers a serene recreational escape for visitors to enjoy fishing, boating, and other water-related activities.
As climate change continues to impact water resources, the significance of dams like Paul Lake Dam in managing water supply and supporting local ecosystems becomes increasingly vital. With its potential for risk management measures and emergency action planning, this dam exemplifies the balance between human recreation and environmental conservation in a changing climate landscape.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
390 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB NEGRO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
71 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Spoon River At London Mills
|
86cfs |
Spoon River At Seville
|
143cfs |
Henderson Creek Near Oquawka
|
45cfs |
Pope Creek Near Keithsburg
|
25cfs |
La Moine River At Colmar
|
17cfs |
Edwards River Near New Boston
|
41cfs |
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.
Paul Lake Dam