Horseshoe Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Horseshoe Lake Dam, located in Alexander County, Illinois, serves as a crucial structure for water resource management and recreation in the area.
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Summary
Completed in 1950, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and has a storage capacity of 6615 acre-feet, primarily for recreational purposes. Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), the dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.
The dam's location on Lake Creek and its proximity to Horseshoe Lake make it a key feature in the region's water management system. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and outlets gates to manage water flow effectively. While the condition assessment of the dam is not currently available, its risk assessment categorizes it as moderate, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the environment.
With its scenic location and recreational opportunities, Horseshoe Lake Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and public enjoyment. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of structures like the Horseshoe Lake Dam in maintaining a balance between human needs and environmental preservation becomes increasingly evident. Through state regulation, regular inspections, and risk management measures, this dam plays a crucial role in sustaining the delicate ecosystem of the area while providing valuable recreational opportunities for visitors and residents alike.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
LAKE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
6615 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Mississippi River At Thebes
|
96800cfs |
Cache River At Forman
|
23cfs |
Bayou Creek Near Grahamville
|
5cfs |
Little River Ditch No. 1 Near Morehouse
|
148cfs |
Little Bayou Creek Near Grahamville
|
1cfs |
Ohio River At Metropolis
|
444000cfs |
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.
Horseshoe Lake Dam