Msdgc Edsall Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Msdgc Edsall Lake Dam, also known as Edsall Dam, is a local government-owned structure located in Liverpool-Offstream, Illinois.


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Summary

Built in 1952 by the Little Sister Coal Co., this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans 680 feet along the Trib Big Sister Creek. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a storage capacity of 459 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 307 acre-feet.

The dam, regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. While its condition assessment is currently unavailable, the dam undergoes inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With uncontrolled spillways and no outlet gates, the Msdgc Edsall Lake Dam plays a crucial role in managing floodwaters and protecting the surrounding area from potential water-related disasters.

Despite its age, this dam continues to serve its purpose effectively, contributing to the overall water resource management in Fulton County, Illinois. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Msdgc Edsall Lake Dam a fascinating example of infrastructure designed to mitigate flood risks and safeguard communities from the impacts of extreme weather events.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

680

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

TRIB BIG SISTER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

459

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

22
       
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.