Girard Sunset Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Austiff Pond Dam Whites Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Located in Macoupin, Illinois, the Girard Sunset Lake Dam is a privately owned structure built in 1955 primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The dam, standing at a height of 47 feet and stretching 1015 feet in length, holds a maximum storage capacity of 2749 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 125 acres. Situated on the TRIB EAST FORK OTTER CREEK, this earth dam with a buttress core type is regulated by the IDNR and undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with regulatory standards.
With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the Girard Sunset Lake Dam poses minimal threat to its surrounding area. Although its condition assessment is not available, the dam's emergency action plan status is unclear, highlighting the need for proper preparedness measures in case of a potential safety concern. Despite these uncertainties, the dam continues to serve as a hub for recreational activities, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts to its tranquil waters and picturesque surroundings. As a vital part of the HETTICK-OFFSTREAM community, the Girard Sunset Lake Dam remains a symbol of both leisure and natural beauty in the heart of Illinois.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
1015 |
Dam Height |
47 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB EAST FORK OTTER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
125 |
Drainage Area |
2.78 |
Nid Storage |
2749 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
47 |
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.
Girard Sunset Lake Dam