Georgetown Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Georgetown Dam, also known as Georgetown Reservoir, is a gravity dam located in Georgetown, Illinois, along the Little Vermilion River.


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Summary

Built in 1937, the dam serves primarily for recreation and water supply purposes, with a storage capacity of 126 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 14 feet and spans a length of 272 feet, with an uncontrolled spillway width of 196 feet.

Managed by the local government, the dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Its hazard potential is deemed significant, with a moderate risk assessment rating. While the condition assessment is not available, regular inspections are conducted, with the last one carried out in August 2018. In case of emergencies, there is no information available about the Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status or management measures for risk mitigation.

Situated within the Louisville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Georgetown Dam provides a picturesque setting for recreational activities and contributes to water supply needs in the area. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Georgetown Dam an intriguing infrastructure, blending nature conservation with human utilization in a balanced manner.

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

272

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

LITTLE VERMILLION RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Nid Storage

126

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
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.