Old Altamont Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Old Altamont Reservoir Dam, located in Effingham, Illinois, is a private dam that was completed in 1934 by designer George S.
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Summary
Fuller. It serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a storage capacity of 178 acre-feet and a surface area of 20 acres. Situated on Second Creek, the dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a length of 414 feet.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has not been assessed for its condition recently. It is state-regulated and inspected, with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources overseeing its permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The spillway of the dam is uncontrolled, with a width of 46 feet, and it has an uncontrolled outlet gate.
Despite its historical significance and recreational value, the Old Altamont Reservoir Dam requires regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality for the surrounding community and environment. Its unique design and location make it a notable landmark in the region, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1934 |
Dam Length |
414 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
SECOND CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Drainage Area |
1.7 |
Nid Storage |
178 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
24 |
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.
Old Altamont Reservoir Dam