Roney Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Roney Lake Dam, located in Little York, Illinois, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1965 for the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Situated on the TRIB CEDAR CREEK, this dam stands at 23 feet tall and spans 200 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 59 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and is subject to state inspection and enforcement.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Roney Lake Dam poses a manageable level of risk to the surrounding area. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam has not undergone recent condition assessment, with the last inspection occurring in July 2015. While the Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status and risk management measures remain unknown, the dam's overall risk level is considered moderate based on available data.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Roney Lake Dam offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of recreational infrastructure and environmental stewardship. As a privately owned structure in Warren County, Illinois, this dam serves as a focal point for outdoor activities while also contributing to the local water management system. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, Roney Lake Dam provides a valuable case study for understanding the complexities of dam regulation and risk assessment in the context of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB CEDAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
59 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Henderson Creek Near Oquawka
|
39cfs |
Pope Creek Near Keithsburg
|
30cfs |
Edwards River Near New Boston
|
40cfs |
Edwards River Near Orion
|
66cfs |
Spoon River At London Mills
|
86cfs |
Mill Creek At Milan
|
3cfs |
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.
Roney Lake Dam