Morrison Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Morrison Lake Dam, located in Mercer County, Illinois, was completed in 1965 by the USDA NRCS and serves as a vital recreational resource for the community.


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Summary

The 33-foot earth dam, with a primary purpose of recreation, impounds Morrison Lake and offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water activities. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the IDNR to ensure safety and compliance with state regulations.

With a storage capacity of 125 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 85 acre-feet, Morrison Lake Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 31 feet and is classified as having a significant hazard potential. While the condition assessment of the dam is not available, regular inspections are conducted every three years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite moderate risk assessment, the dam continues to provide valuable recreational opportunities while also serving as a key component of water resource management in the region.

In the event of an emergency, the dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status and preparedness remain unspecified. However, the dam is associated with the risk management measures and guidelines to mitigate potential hazards. With its strategic location on the Edwards River tributary and the dedication to recreational purposes, Morrison Lake Dam stands as a vital infrastructure for both water enthusiasts and climate advocates in the area.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

256

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

TRIB EDWARDS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

125

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

33
       
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.