Williams Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 11, 2026
Williams Lake Dam, also known as Lanes Lake, is a private-owned structure located in Venedy-Offstream, Illinois.
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Summary
Built in 1968 by designer Ralph R. Bartelsmeyer, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and spans 420 feet in length. Its primary purpose is for recreation, offering a storage capacity of 311 acre-feet and a normal storage of 221 acre-feet.
Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Williams Lake Dam on Elkhorn Creek is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state authorities. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment score, the dam is equipped with uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates. While its condition assessment is not available, the last inspection in July 2015 revealed a need for inspections every five years to ensure its safety and functionality.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Williams Lake Dam presents a fascinating case study in dam engineering and management. With its scenic location in Washington County, Illinois, this dam serves as a vital recreational resource while also highlighting the importance of regular inspections and risk assessments to mitigate potential hazards. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and upkeep of structures like Williams Lake Dam play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and sustainability of our water systems.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
420 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
ELKHORN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
311 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Kaskaskia River Near Venedy Station
|
882cfs |
Little Crooked Creek Near New Minden
|
1cfs |
Kaskaskia River At New Athens
|
895cfs |
Silver Creek Near Freeburg
|
167cfs |
Shoal Creek Near Breese
|
359cfs |
Kaskaskia River At Carlyle
|
727cfs |
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.
Williams Lake Dam