Whitley Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Casson Pond Dam Gill Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Whitley Dam, located in Littleton, Illinois, is a privately owned structure designed by HURST ROCHE for recreation and water supply purposes.
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Summary
The dam spans 300 feet in length and reaches a height of 30 feet, with a storage capacity of 130 acre-feet. Situated on the West Branch Sugar Creek, this earth dam with a buttress core serves as a vital resource for the surrounding community.
Despite its low hazard potential, Whitley Dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 28 feet, has a maximum discharge capacity of 143 cubic feet per second. Its surface area of 10.3 acres and drainage area of 0.59 square miles contribute to its importance in managing water resources and protecting against potential flooding events.
With a moderate risk assessment rating, Whitley Dam plays a crucial role in water management and recreational activities in the region. Its construction and maintenance reflect a commitment to safeguarding the environment and supporting community needs. As a centerpiece of the local landscape, this dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
WEST BRANCH SUGAR CR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.59 |
Nid Storage |
130 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
La Moine River At Ripley
|
33cfs |
La Moine River At Colmar
|
17cfs |
Spoon River At Seville
|
161cfs |
Sangamon River Near Oakford
|
356cfs |
Spoon River At London Mills
|
86cfs |
Illinois River At Valley City
|
2970cfs |
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.
Whitley Dam