Lake Catatoga Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Beaver Lake Dam Suhling Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Lake Catatoga Dam in Carlinville, Illinois, stands as a testament to water resource management and climate resilience.
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Summary
Built in 1972 with a primary purpose of recreation, this private-owned earth dam stretches 555 feet long and reaches a height of 52 feet, providing a storage capacity of 1011 acre-feet for the surrounding area. The dam, situated on the tributary Dry Fork Macoupin Creek, is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam at Lake Catatoga serves as a critical component of the local water infrastructure, supporting both recreational activities and water management efforts in the region. With an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam contributes to moderate risk management measures, emphasizing the importance of emergency preparedness and risk assessment protocols. As climate change continues to impact water resources, Lake Catatoga Dam stands as a vital asset in safeguarding against potential hazards and ensuring sustainable water management practices for the future.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
555 |
Dam Height |
52 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB DRY FORK MACOUPIN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
1011 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
52 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Lake Catatoga Dam