Lake Carlinville Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Lake Carlinville Dam, located in Macoupin, Illinois, is a local government-owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation and water supply.
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Summary
Constructed in 1938, this earth dam stands at a height of 34 feet and spans a length of 785 feet. It impounds Honey Creek, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 4405 acre-feet and a surface area of 233 acres.
The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 150 feet and has a low hazard potential, according to the data. While the condition assessment is not available, the dam is inspected every five years, with the last inspection conducted in July 2019. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating a level 3 risk. Despite the lack of specific information on emergency preparedness measures, the dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements.
Overall, Lake Carlinville Dam serves as a vital recreational and water supply resource in the area, contributing to the local community's water management and leisure activities. With its historical significance and moderate risk level, ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts are crucial to ensure the safety and sustainability of this essential infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
785 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
HONEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
233 |
Drainage Area |
24.8 |
Nid Storage |
4405 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
34 |
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.
Lake Carlinville Dam