Spring Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Spring Lake Dam, located in Winnebago, Illinois, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1965 by DEJONG & ASSOCIATES, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and stretches 1600 feet in length. It has a storage capacity of 86 acre-feet and serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities in the area.

Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Spring Lake Dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 39 feet, and it has a significant hazard potential. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam provides valuable recreational opportunities for the community while also contributing to the overall water resource management in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Spring Lake Dam offers a fascinating insight into the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. As a vital part of the local water management system, this earth dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational benefits while also posing potential risks that require careful monitoring and maintenance. Its presence along the Trib Spring Creek in Rockford, Illinois, highlights the importance of sustainable dam management practices to ensure the safety and well-being of both the environment and the community.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

1600

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

TRIB SPRING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.3

Drainage Area

6.6

Nid Storage

86

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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.