West Frankfort New City Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
West Frankfort New City Lake Dam, also known as New City Lake, is a vital water resource in Franklin County, Illinois.
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Summary
Owned by the local government, this earth dam was completed in 1945 and serves multiple purposes, including recreation and water storage. With a height of 25 feet and a length of 1155 feet, the dam impounds Stevens Creek and Ewing Creek tributaries, creating a surface area of 206 acres and a drainage area of 7.78 square miles.
Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), West Frankfort New City Lake Dam has a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The uncontrolled spillway has a width of 125 feet, capable of handling a maximum discharge of 9750 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the dam is regularly inspected and maintained, with the last inspection conducted in July 2019. While the condition assessment is not available, emergency action plans have been prepared to ensure public safety in case of any unforeseen events.
Located in West Frankfort, Illinois, this dam is an essential infrastructure for water management and recreational activities in the region. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, West Frankfort New City Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1945 |
Dam Length |
1155 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
STEVENS CREEK, TRIB EWING CR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
206 |
Drainage Area |
7.78 |
Nid Storage |
4327 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
West Frankfort New City Lake Dam