Rinaker Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Rinaker Lake Dam, also known as Macoupin Lake, is a privately owned earth dam located in Hardin, Illinois.
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Summary
Built in 1900, this recreational dam stands at a height of 23 feet and stretches 245 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 155 acre-feet, it primarily serves as a recreational area for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Rinaker Lake Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 36 feet and is classified with a low hazard potential. Despite its moderate risk assessment level, no specific risk management measures have been outlined for the dam.
The dam, situated on Hurricane Creek, has not been modified in recent years and is in a condition where assessment is not available. With a limited emergency action plan and no inundation maps prepared, Rinaker Lake Dam presents a moderate risk for potential issues, making it an area of interest for those passionate about water resources and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
245 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB HURRICANE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
155 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
23 |
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.
Rinaker Lake Dam