Whoopie Cat Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Whoopie Cat is a federally-owned recreational dam located in Hardin, Illinois.


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Summary

Built in 1977 by the USDA Forest Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet and spans 450 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 316 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Whoopie Cat is for recreation, offering visitors a serene spot for outdoor activities and leisure.

Despite its scenic appeal, Whoopie Cat poses a significant hazard potential with a poor condition assessment as of May 2019. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 25 feet, and it has a moderate risk rating of 3. The Forest Service is responsible for the regulation, inspection, and enforcement of safety measures at the dam, ensuring its continued operation and maintenance in compliance with state regulations.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts should take note of Whoopie Cat as an important recreational infrastructure in the area. With its location on the TR-Big Green river and its critical role in providing recreational opportunities, it is essential to monitor and address the dam's condition to ensure the safety of both visitors and the surrounding environment.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

TR-BIG GREEN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

22

Hydraulic Height

34

Nid Storage

316

Structural Height

44

Hazard Potential

Significant

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.