Shabbona Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Stroyan Lake Dam Buck Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Shabbona Lake Dam, located in DeKalb, Illinois, is a state-owned structure that was completed in 1974 by Architectural & Engineering Service.
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Summary
The dam, standing at a height of 56 feet and stretching 2570 feet in length, serves a primary purpose of recreation along with other purposes. Situated on Indian Creek, the dam's reservoir has a normal storage capacity of 4275 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 6387 acre-feet, making it a valuable resource for water supply and outdoor activities.
Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), Shabbona Lake Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state. The dam's spillway, with a width of 443 feet, is of the uncontrolled type, and it poses a low hazard potential. Despite a moderate risk assessment score of 3, the condition assessment of the dam is not available, and there is no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place. With its scenic location at Shabbona Grove and the recreational opportunities it offers, the dam is a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking outdoor adventures and natural beauty in the region.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
2570 |
Dam Height |
56 |
River Or Stream |
INDIAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
6387 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
56 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Shabbona Lake Dam