Hambaugh-Martin 1 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Hambaugh-Martin 1 Dam, located in Meredosia, Illinois, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the IDNR.
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Summary
Completed in 1961, this earth dam stands at a height of 41 feet and spans 500 feet in length, serving primarily for flood risk reduction along the tributary of the Illinois River. With a storage capacity of 406 acre-feet, the dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.
Despite its age, Hambaugh-Martin 1 Dam has not undergone any reported modifications and its condition assessment is currently unavailable. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a spillway width of 50 feet. The last inspection was conducted in July 2017, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every 5 years. Although the dam is deemed to have a moderate risk level, there is no detailed risk management plan in place, indicating a potential area for improvement in terms of emergency preparedness and response.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find the Hambaugh-Martin 1 Dam to be an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure management. With its unique design, historical significance, and flood risk reduction purpose, this dam serves as a vital component in the water management system of Illinois. As discussions around climate change and extreme weather events continue to evolve, understanding the role of dams like Hambaugh-Martin 1 in mitigating flood risks and protecting communities becomes increasingly relevant in the broader context of water resource management and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
41 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB ILLINOIS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
406 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
41 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Illinois River At Valley City
|
2970cfs |
La Moine River At Ripley
|
33cfs |
Bay Creek At Pittsfield
|
43cfs |
La Moine River At Colmar
|
17cfs |
Sangamon River Near Oakford
|
356cfs |
Bear Creek Near Marcelline
|
5cfs |
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.
Hambaugh-Martin 1 Dam