Horton Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hendricks Dam Dettmer Dam
Last Updated: December 23, 2025
Horton Lake Dam, located in Hancock County, Illinois, is a state-regulated structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1967 by WALTER E. HANSON & CO., this earth dam stands at a height of 50 feet and has a length of 480 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 287 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the TRIB MISSISSIPPI RIVER and serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational activities such as fishing and boating.
With a hazard potential rated as high and a moderate risk assessment score of 3, Horton Lake Dam is subject to state inspection, regulation, and enforcement by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The spillway of the dam is uncontrolled, with a width of 55 feet, and the outlet gates are also uncontrolled. Despite the lack of available condition assessment data, the dam's emergency action plan was last revised in 1986, indicating a need for updated safety measures in case of potential emergencies.
Overall, Horton Lake Dam presents an intriguing site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore, given its unique design features and recreational opportunities. As a significant structure in the Kansas City District, this dam stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of its designers and the regulatory oversight necessary to ensure its safety and functionality for both public enjoyment and environmental preservation in the region.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
480 |
Dam Height |
50 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB MISSISSIPPI RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Drainage Area |
33 |
Nid Storage |
287 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
50 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Des Moines River At St. Francisville
|
1620cfs |
Skunk River At Augusta
|
594cfs |
Fox River At Wayland
|
8cfs |
Bear Creek Near Marcelline
|
5cfs |
Wyaconda River Above Canton
|
13cfs |
La Moine River At Colmar
|
17cfs |
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.
Horton Lake Dam