Cross Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Located in Mackinaw, Illinois, the Cross Lake Dam is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1962 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and spans 267 feet in length. With a maximum storage capacity of 53 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 37 acre-feet, the dam regulates the flow of the Trib Funks Branch river.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 32 feet and is classified as having a low hazard potential. Despite its age, the Cross Lake Dam has a moderate risk assessment score of 3, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance. While the condition assessment is currently listed as not available, the dam is subject to regular inspections by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to ensure its safety and integrity.

Cross Lake Dam serves as a vital component in the local water resource management system, providing opportunities for recreational activities while also playing a role in flood control and water regulation. As climate change impacts continue to affect water resources, the importance of maintaining and monitoring structures like the Cross Lake Dam becomes increasingly crucial for ensuring the safety and sustainability of the surrounding ecosystem.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

267

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

TRIB FUNKS BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

53

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

31
       
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.