Scheuermann Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Scheuermann Lake Dam, located in Adams County, Illinois, was completed in 1965 and serves as a vital structure for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Managed by a private owner, the dam stands at a height of 26 feet and stretches across a length of 290 feet, with a storage capacity of 39 acre-feet. The dam is primarily of earth construction type with a buttress core, and its spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 38 feet.

Despite being classified with a low hazard potential, the dam is subject to regular inspections by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with state regulations. An inspection frequency of every 5 years is maintained, with the most recent assessment conducted in April 2021. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam is equipped with emergency contact information, although specific emergency action plans are currently not available.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Scheuermann Lake Dam to be a fascinating example of dam infrastructure in Illinois. Its role in providing recreational opportunities while being subject to regulatory oversight highlights the importance of maintaining the safety and functionality of such critical water management structures for the surrounding communities and ecosystems.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

290

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TRIB WHITEOAK CREEK,BEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

39

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.