Columbia Lakes South Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 12, 2026

Columbia Lakes South Lake Dam, located in Monroe, Illinois, serves as a vital water resource for the area, offering both recreational opportunities and water supply functions.


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Summary

Constructed in 1990, this earth dam stands at 25 feet in height and spans 245 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 126 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the TRIB PALMER CREEK and is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR).

Notably, the dam has a high hazard potential due to its proximity to populated areas, requiring regular inspections and enforcement to ensure public safety. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently unavailable, indicating a need for further evaluation. It is designated as a private-owned structure, designed by HOELSCHER ENGINEERING, P.C., emphasizing the importance of private sector involvement in water resource management and infrastructure maintenance.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, Columbia Lakes South Lake Dam stands as a crucial component in the region's water management system. With a moderate risk assessment rating, there is a need for ongoing risk management measures to safeguard against potential hazards and ensure the dam's continued functionality for both recreational and water supply purposes. This dam serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between water resources, climate change, and the importance of proactive maintenance and regulation in safeguarding our communities.

Year Completed

1990

Dam Length

245

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TRIB PALMER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Drainage Area

0.08

Nid Storage

126

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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Nearby Streamflow Levels

Columbia Lakes South Lake DamMartigney Creek near Arnold Preview Martigney Creek Near Arnold
0.4cfs
0cfs
Columbia Lakes South Lake DamGravois Creek near Mehlville Preview Gravois Creek Near Mehlville
3.32cfs
3cfs
Columbia Lakes South Lake DamMattese Creek near Mattese Preview Mattese Creek Near Mattese
3.92cfs
4cfs
Columbia Lakes South Lake DamRiver des Peres at St. Louis Preview River Des Peres At St. Louis
2.89cfs
3cfs
Columbia Lakes South Lake DamGrammond Creek near Wilbur Park Preview Grammond Creek Near Wilbur Park
0.69cfs
1cfs
Columbia Lakes South Lake DamMacKenzie Creek near Shrewsbury Preview Mackenzie Creek Near Shrewsbury
0.59cfs
1cfs

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.
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Nearby Reservoirs