Lake Of The Woods Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Lake of The Woods Dam, located in Champaign, Illinois, is a vital structure that plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience.
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Summary
Constructed in 1940, this earth dam stands at 30 feet high and spans a length of 850 feet, with a storage capacity of 323 acre-feet. The dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and tourism in the area.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Lake of The Woods Dam is subject to regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. With a spillway width of 177 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 960 cubic feet per second, the dam is equipped to effectively manage water flow and prevent flooding in the surrounding area. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment remains moderate, indicating a proactive approach to risk management and safety protocols.
In addition to its structural significance, Lake of The Woods Dam also contributes to the ecosystem by providing habitat for various wildlife species and supporting the local hydrological cycle. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of properly maintaining and managing dams like Lake of The Woods becomes increasingly crucial in ensuring water security and environmental sustainability for future generations.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
850 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB SANGAMON RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
28 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
323 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Lake Of The Woods Dam