Lake Pauline Dam

TRIB LITTLE WABASH RIVER· Effingham, Illinois· Built 1951· Earth· 38 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Lake Pauline Dam is classified as significant hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1951 and is 75 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 38 ft (taller than 80.7% in IL)
Dam Length380 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage471 acre-ft
Normal Storage350 acre-ft
Year Completed1951 (75 years old)
NID IDIL00964

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: October 29, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: IDNR

Ownership

MARGUERITE PURCELL

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lake Pauline Dam?

Lake Pauline Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Lake Pauline Dam?

Lake Pauline Dam is owned by MARGUERITE PURCELL (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lake Pauline Dam built?

Lake Pauline Dam was completed in 1951, making it 75 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Lake Pauline Dam?

Lake Pauline Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Lake Pauline Dam?

Lake Pauline Dam has a dam height of 38 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Lake Pauline Dam last inspected?

Lake Pauline Dam was last inspected on October 29, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.