Wanboro Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Edwards County, Illinois, Wanboro Lake Dam is a private structure designed for recreation purposes, with a height of 28 feet and a length of 500 feet.
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Summary
Completed in 1977, this earth dam sits on the TRIB BUTTER CREEK and is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Despite its status as a private dam, Wanboro Lake Dam has a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, making it an important site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor.
With a storage capacity of 183 acre-feet, Wanboro Lake Dam provides crucial recreational opportunities for the local community while also serving as a significant structure for water management. The dam's uncontrolled spillway type and lack of outlet gates add to its unique design, attracting interest from engineering and environmental experts. Its location within the Louisville District and proximity to John Shimkus (R)'s congressional district further highlight its importance in the region.
Although lacking in available condition assessment data, Wanboro Lake Dam remains a key player in the water resource landscape of Illinois. Its historical significance, coupled with its modern-day impact on the local ecosystem, make it a prime subject for further study and research in the realm of water resource management and climate adaptation.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB BUTTER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
183 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bonpas Creek At Browns
|
0cfs |
Wabash River At Mt. Carmel
|
8730cfs |
Wabash River At New Harmony
|
8430cfs |
Little Wabash River Below Clay City
|
48cfs |
Little Wabash River At Carmi
|
169cfs |
Big Creek Near Wadesville
|
2cfs |
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.
Wanboro Lake Dam