Cache River Containment Basin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Cache River Containment Basin Dam, located in Ullin, Illinois, is a federal-owned structure designed by IDNR/OCD and USDA-NRCS.


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Summary

Completed in 2004, this earth dam stands at 9 feet tall and stretches 326 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 88 acre-feet and a surface area of 11.3 acres. It serves as a vital component in managing water resources in the area, specifically in the Trib Cache River.

This low hazard potential dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections, with the last one conducted in November 2014. While the current condition assessment is not available, the dam is considered to have a very high risk rating due to its critical role in flood control and water storage. The dam features controlled spillways and a primary purpose of "Other," highlighting its multifaceted importance in the region's water resource management.

Despite its relatively low hazard potential, Cache River Containment Basin Dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential flooding and managing water resources effectively. With its strategic location and design features, this dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of federal agencies and serves as a key infrastructure asset in Illinois' water resource management system.

Year Completed

2004

Dam Length

326

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

TRIB CACHE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11.3

Drainage Area

0.21

Nid Storage

88

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

9
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.