Spring Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Located in McDonough County, Illinois, the Spring Lake Dam is a vital structure managed by the local government for recreational and water supply purposes.


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Summary

Constructed in 1927 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 46 feet and spans 1450 feet along Spring Creek. With a storage capacity of 5611 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water levels and providing recreational opportunities in the area.

The dam's spillway, with a width of 511 feet, is uncontrolled, adding an element of risk due to its significant hazard potential. Despite moderate risk assessment ratings, the dam's condition assessment is not currently available, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources oversees state regulation and permitting for the dam, ensuring compliance with safety standards and enforcement protocols.

As a beloved landmark in the region, the Spring Lake Dam serves as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. With its rich history and continued importance for both recreation and water supply, the dam stands as a reminder of the delicate balance between human infrastructure and natural ecosystems in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1927

Dam Length

1450

Dam Height

46

River Or Stream

SPRING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

22

Nid Storage

5611

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

46
       
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.