Pittsfield Lake 2 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Pittsfield Lake 2 Dam, also known as New Pittsfield Lake 2, is a vital structure located in Florence, Illinois, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Built in 1960 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and spans 585 feet in length. It holds a maximum storage capacity of 454 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 89 acre-feet, serving as a critical resource for managing water levels during periods of heavy rainfall and potential flooding.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Pittsfield Lake 2 Dam is designed with buttress core types and an uncontrolled spillway. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating, prompting a regular inspection frequency of every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity and continued functionality. With no reported condition assessment available, the dam remains a key component in the region's flood protection infrastructure and contributes to the overall water resource management in the area.

Situated near the TRIB BLUE CREEK and overseen by the St. Louis District of the USACE, Pittsfield Lake 2 Dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding community from potential flood events. While its specific risk management measures and emergency preparedness details are not disclosed, the dam's presence and operational status contribute to the overall resilience of the region's water resource and climate adaptation efforts.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

585

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

TRIB BLUE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

454

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

32
       
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.