Waddell Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Waddell Dam, also known as Freeman United Impoundment 24w Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Schuyler, Illinois.
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Summary
This Earth-type dam was completed in 1998 and serves the primary purpose of debris control along the tributary of Willow Creek. With a height of 33 feet and a length of 300 feet, Waddell Dam boasts a storage capacity of 183 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 6 acres.
Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Waddell Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam poses a low hazard potential and has a moderate risk assessment rating. While its condition assessment is currently unavailable, the dam's emergency action plan status, inundation maps, and risk management measures are not specified. Waddell Dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates contribute to its design for recreational purposes in addition to debris control.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Waddell Dam presents an interesting case study in private dam ownership and management within the state of Illinois. Its construction by the Freeman United Coal Co. and oversight by state regulatory agencies highlight the importance of maintaining dam infrastructure for both safety and environmental purposes. As a key feature in the local watershed, Waddell Dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and debris while providing recreational opportunities for the surrounding community.
Year Completed |
1998 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB WILLOW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Drainage Area |
0.7 |
Nid Storage |
183 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
La Moine River At Colmar
|
17cfs |
La Moine River At Ripley
|
14cfs |
Spoon River At Seville
|
168cfs |
Bear Creek Near Marcelline
|
5cfs |
Spoon River At London Mills
|
86cfs |
Illinois River At Valley City
|
4980cfs |
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.
Waddell Dam