Kinkaid Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Kinkaid Lake Dam, also known as Crissenberry Dam, is a state-owned structure located in Jackson County, Illinois.


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Summary

Completed in 1972, this Earth-type dam stands at an impressive height of 96 feet and spans a length of 980 feet. Its primary purpose is for recreation, with additional benefits for water supply. The dam is situated along Kinkaid Creek and has a drainage area of 62.3 square miles, offering a maximum storage capacity of 153,000 acre-feet.

Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), Kinkaid Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its size and location. Despite its risk assessment rating of moderate, the condition assessment of the dam is not currently available. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 250 feet and serves as a popular recreational spot with a surface area of 2500 acres. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last inspection recorded in November 2018, ensuring the safety and integrity of the structure for both water resource management and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

980

Dam Height

96

River Or Stream

KINKAID CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2500

Drainage Area

62.3

Nid Storage

153000

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

96
       
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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.