Cherry Valley Lower Dam, located in Winnebago, Illinois, serves a primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Madigan Creek. Built in 1993, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and stretches 800 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet. The dam is state-regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 252 feet and is owned by the local government of Cherry Valley. Designed by Infratek Consultants, the Cherry Valley Lower Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area, with a drainage area of 5.4 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 3000 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is essential for mitigating flood risks and ensuring the safety of nearby communities.

Overall, Cherry Valley Lower Dam plays a vital role in the flood risk reduction efforts in Winnebago, Illinois. With its strategic location along the Madigan Creek and state-regulated operations, this earth dam contributes to the efficient management of water resources in the area. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's moderate risk assessment highlights the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in safeguarding the surrounding communities from potential flooding events.