Spaulding Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Spaulding Dam, also known as Lake Springfield, is a concrete structure located in Sangamon County, Illinois, with a primary purpose of recreation and water supply.
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Summary
Constructed in 1933 by BURNS & MCDONNELL, the dam stands at a height of 48 feet and spans 3,300 feet in length. It has a storage capacity of 101,205 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 4,224 acres. The dam regulates the flow of Sugar Creek and boasts a controlled spillway with a width of 225 feet.
Owned by a public utility, Spaulding Dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. With a hazard potential rated as high and a risk assessment indicating a very high risk level, the dam's emergency action plan is crucial for preparedness in case of any emergencies. Despite its age, the dam continues to be a vital resource for the local community, providing recreational opportunities and serving as a reliable source of water supply. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Spaulding Dam is a fascinating example of engineering ingenuity and the importance of proper dam management in mitigating potential risks.
Year Completed |
1933 |
Dam Length |
3300 |
Dam Height |
48 |
River Or Stream |
SUGAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
4224 |
Drainage Area |
265 |
Nid Storage |
101205 |
Outlet Gates |
Drum |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
48 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Fork Sangamon River Nr Rochester
|
11cfs |
Sangamon River At Riverton
|
125cfs |
Spring Creek At Springfield
|
7cfs |
Lake Fork Near Cornland
|
17cfs |
Sangamon River At Petersburg
|
209cfs |
Salt Creek Near Greenview
|
204cfs |
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.
Spaulding Dam