Beaver Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gahr Pond Dam 3 Gahr Pond Dam 2
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Beaver Lake Dam, located in Macoupin County, Illinois, is a state-owned earth dam that serves as a recreational area for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1912 with a height of 16 feet and a length of 390 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 588 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.31 square miles. The dam is situated on the tributary of Macoupin Creek and is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR).
With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Beaver Lake Dam is a vital structure for flood control and water supply management in the region. The dam features uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, with a maximum discharge capacity of 125 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the dam has not undergone recent condition assessments, but it is inspected every five years to ensure its safety and reliability. The dam's primary purpose is recreation, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities.
Managed by C/S Engineering, Beaver Lake Dam remains a significant landmark in the St. Louis District, providing both environmental and recreational benefits to the community. As an essential component of the local water infrastructure, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance and enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. Whether you're interested in water conservation, climate resilience, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Beaver Lake Dam offers a unique blend of functionality and recreation for all enthusiasts to appreciate.
Year Completed |
1912 |
Dam Length |
390 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB MACOUPIN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
57 |
Drainage Area |
0.31 |
Nid Storage |
588 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
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.
Beaver Lake Dam