Buchanan Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Buchanan Lake Dam, also known as Sherman Lake, is a privately owned dam located in Yates City, Illinois.
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Summary
The dam was constructed in 1987 by CLARK ENGINEERS and serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet and a surface area of 16 acres. It stands at a height of 27 feet and spans a length of 575 feet across the TRIB FRENCH CREEK.
Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Buchanan Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is classified as having a moderate risk level. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 54 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 120 cubic feet per second. Although the condition assessment is currently not available, the dam undergoes inspections every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
Located within Knox County, Illinois, Buchanan Lake Dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities for the local community while also serving as a vital water resource. With its scenic surroundings and regulated operations, the dam stands as a testament to effective water management practices in the region.
Year Completed |
1987 |
Dam Length |
575 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB FRENCH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
16 |
Nid Storage |
200 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
27 |
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.
Buchanan Lake Dam