H. Wilkins Irrigation Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
H.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Wilkins Irrigation Dam, located in Avon, Illinois and completed in 1958, serves as a vital resource for fish and wildlife management, irrigation, and other purposes. Owned and regulated by the private sector with oversight from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, this Earth-type dam stands at 24 feet tall and spans 300 feet along Swan Creek. With a storage capacity of 94 acre-feet and a surface area of 9 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Designed by the USDA NRCS, the H. Wilkins Irrigation Dam not only supports the local ecosystem but also contributes to flood control and irrigation needs. With a low hazard potential, the dam has a spillway width of 44 feet and a maximum discharge of 288 cubic feet per second. While the dam's condition assessment is currently unavailable, periodic inspections ensure its structural integrity and functionality. Additionally, the dam is equipped with emergency action plans to address any unforeseen events, demonstrating a commitment to safety and risk management.
Overall, the H. Wilkins Irrigation Dam serves as a cornerstone in water management efforts in Warren County, Illinois. With its strategic location, design, and purpose, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and environmental stewardship. As a critical infrastructure for both wildlife preservation and human needs, the dam exemplifies the intersection of conservation, agriculture, and climate resilience in the region.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
SWAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Drainage Area |
0.38 |
Nid Storage |
94 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Spoon River At London Mills
|
86cfs |
Spoon River At Seville
|
143cfs |
Henderson Creek Near Oquawka
|
45cfs |
La Moine River At Colmar
|
17cfs |
Illinois River At Kingston Mines
|
5510cfs |
Pope Creek Near Keithsburg
|
25cfs |
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.
H. Wilkins Irrigation Dam