Hambaugh-Martin 5 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Hambaugh-Martin 5 Dam, located in Brown County, Illinois, was completed in 1960 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
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Summary
This privately owned earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and spans a length of 320 feet, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the tributary of the Illinois River. With a storage capacity of 63 acre-feet and a low hazard potential, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.
Despite its age, Hambaugh-Martin 5 Dam is regularly inspected by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a moderate risk assessment rating. While the condition assessment is not available, the dam's risk management measures are in place to mitigate potential hazards and ensure proper emergency response protocols. With its strategic location and design, the Hambaugh-Martin 5 Dam remains a key element in the region's water resource infrastructure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hambaugh-Martin 5 Dam offers a fascinating example of how engineering and conservation efforts can work together to protect communities from flooding and manage water flow effectively. As a state-regulated structure with a history of successful flood risk reduction, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions. With a focus on safety, maintenance, and risk mitigation, Hambaugh-Martin 5 Dam stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance human needs with environmental stewardship in the realm of water resource management.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
320 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB ILLINOIS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
63 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
La Moine River At Ripley
|
33cfs |
Illinois River At Valley City
|
2970cfs |
Bay Creek At Pittsfield
|
43cfs |
La Moine River At Colmar
|
17cfs |
Sangamon River Near Oakford
|
356cfs |
Bear Creek Near Marcelline
|
5cfs |
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.
Hambaugh-Martin 5 Dam