Sweeneys Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Sweeneys Pond Dam, located in Fulton County, Illinois, is a private dam with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1952 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 34 feet and has a length of 270 feet, creating a storage capacity of 186 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Shoal Creek and is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, with regular inspections conducted to ensure its safety.
Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Sweeneys Pond Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 46 feet, and its condition assessment is currently listed as not available. Emergency action plans and risk management measures for the dam are also not specified in the available data. The dam's last inspection date was in August 2013, with inspections scheduled every five years to monitor its condition and address any potential risks.
With its tranquil setting and recreational purpose, Sweeneys Pond Dam serves as a valuable water resource in the area. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the proper management and upkeep of dams like Sweeneys Pond Dam are essential to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the sustainability of water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
270 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
SHOAL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
186 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
34 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Spoon River At Seville
|
143cfs |
Spoon River At London Mills
|
86cfs |
Illinois River At Kingston Mines
|
5510cfs |
La Moine River At Colmar
|
17cfs |
Sangamon River Near Oakford
|
377cfs |
La Moine River At Ripley
|
21cfs |
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.
Sweeneys Pond Dam