Lake Le-Aqua-Na Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Lake Le-Aqua-Na Dam, located in Lena, Illinois, is a state-owned structure managed by the Illinois Department of Conservation.


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Summary

Completed in 1955, this Earth-type dam stands at 44 feet high and spans 680 feet across Waddams Creek. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam provides a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as fishing and boating on its 47-acre surface area.

The dam has a storage capacity of 1,013 acre-feet and a drainage area of 3.7 square miles. It features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 67 feet and a maximum discharge rate of 3,971 cubic feet per second. Although it has a significant hazard potential, its risk assessment is moderate. The dam's condition assessment is currently unavailable, but regular inspections are conducted every three years to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

Despite its age, Lake Le-Aqua-Na Dam continues to be a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to experience the beauty of nature in Stephenson County, Illinois. Its scenic surroundings and recreational opportunities make it a valuable asset for the local community and a must-visit location for those interested in water resource management and climate conservation.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

680

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

WADDAMS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

47

Drainage Area

3.7

Nid Storage

1013

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

44
       
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.