Willow Wood Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Willow Wood Lake Dam, located in Smithton, Illinois, is a privately owned structure designed by THOUVENOT, WADE & MOERCHEN, INC.
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Summary
The dam was completed in 2003 and serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 8.3 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 214 acre-feet. Situated on the tributary West Fork Richland Creek, the dam stands at 36 feet tall and stretches 580 feet in length, with a spillway width of 13 feet.
Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Willow Wood Lake Dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level (3), reflecting the importance of ongoing risk management measures. With a serene setting and ample recreational opportunities, the dam continues to be a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts in St. Clair County, Illinois.
As an integral part of the local ecosystem, Willow Wood Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water storage and management for the surrounding area. Its presence not only provides recreational benefits but also contributes to the overall resilience of the region in the face of changing climate patterns. With proper oversight and maintenance, this earth dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in safeguarding community well-being and environmental integrity.
Year Completed |
2003 |
Dam Length |
580 |
Dam Height |
36 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB WEST FORK RICHLAND CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.06 |
Nid Storage |
214 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
36 |
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.
Willow Wood Lake Dam