Little Sister Lake Dam, located in Maple Mills, Illinois, is a public utility structure designed by Frank Gaweda in 1965 with a primary purpose of recreation.
Wind
Humidity
The earth dam stands at 38 feet high and stretches 380 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 221 acre-feet. Situated on Little Sister Creek, the dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking, offering a serene escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), the dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. With uncontrolled spillways and outlets, the structure poses minimal threat to surrounding areas but is subject to regular state inspections to ensure its safe operation. Despite limited condition assessment data, the dam continues to provide valuable recreational opportunities while contributing to the local ecosystem and water resources in Fulton County.
As part of the Rock Island District, Little Sister Lake Dam exemplifies the harmonious relationship between water management and public recreation. With its serene location and well-maintained facilities, the dam stands as a testament to sustainable infrastructure development and responsible stewardship of water resources. For enthusiasts interested in the intersection of water management and climate resilience, this structure offers a fascinating case study in balancing human recreation with ecological conservation.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
380 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE SISTER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
36 |
Nid Storage |
221 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
38 |
Spoon River At Seville
|
182cfs |
Illinois River At Kingston Mines
|
4300cfs |
Spoon River At London Mills
|
86cfs |
Mackinaw River Near Green Valley
|
45cfs |
Sangamon River Near Oakford
|
582cfs |
Salt Creek Near Greenview
|
232cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Fulton County Rec Area
|
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Rice Lake State Conservation Area
|
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Canton Lake
|
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Back Country 11
|
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Back Country 10
|
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Back Country 7
|