Kincaid City Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Kincaid City Lake Dam, located in Christian County, Illinois, was completed in 1940 and serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 37 feet, with a length of 525 feet, and has a storage capacity of 1575 acre-feet. Aside from its primary purpose of recreation, the dam also plays a role in water supply, providing normal storage of 264 acre-feet.

Managed by the local government, Kincaid City Lake Dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The dam's spillway, with a width of 40 feet, is uncontrolled, and in the event of an emergency, the hazard potential is considered significant. Overall, the dam is classified as having a moderate risk level, with risk management measures in place to mitigate any potential issues.

Water enthusiasts and climate advocates can appreciate Kincaid City Lake Dam not only for its recreational opportunities but also for its role in providing essential water resources to the region. With a rich history dating back to the 1940s and a significant storage capacity, this dam stands as a crucial infrastructure for the community and a focal point for water conservation efforts in Illinois.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

525

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

TRIB SOUTH FORK SANGAMON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

31

Drainage Area

2.1

Nid Storage

1575

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

37
       
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.