Staunton Country Club Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 30, 2025

Staunton Country Club Lake Dam, located in Macoupin, Illinois, is a private dam built in 1922 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 35 feet and stretching 250 feet in length, this earth dam with a buttress core type holds a maximum storage capacity of 81 acre-feet. The dam, situated on TRIB BIG BRANCH, is state-regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and undergoes regular inspections, with its last assessment completed in July 2017.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the risk assessment for Staunton Country Club Lake Dam rates it as moderate (3), suggesting a heightened level of caution in managing any potential risks associated with the structure. With uncontrolled spillways and outlets, the dam's emergency action plan status and adherence to guidelines remain unspecified. The presence of associated structures is noted to be zero, indicating a singular focus on the maintenance and operation of the dam itself, with no additional components for water management.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Staunton Country Club Lake Dam serves as an intriguing case study in private dam ownership and management in Illinois. With a rich history dating back to its construction in the early 20th century, the dam continues to provide recreational opportunities while navigating state regulations and inspections. Its moderate risk assessment underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and potential risk mitigation measures, highlighting the complex interplay between human-made structures and natural water systems in the region.

Year Completed

1922

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TRIB BIG BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

81

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

35
       
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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.