Macoupin Energy Recirculation Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
The Macoupin Energy Recirculation Pond Dam, located in Hardin, Illinois, serves as a crucial water supply source in the region.
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Summary
Constructed in 1970, this earth dam stands at a height of 43 feet and spans 325 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 248 acre-feet, it primarily supports water supply purposes for the surrounding area. Despite being categorized as having a high hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Situated along the tributary of Spanish Needle Creek, this dam's spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 50 feet. It has a risk assessment rating of moderate (3), indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and management measures. While the condition assessment of the dam is currently not available, the last inspection in September 2020 deemed it to be in operational condition. With its purpose of water supply and regulation by the Mine Safety and Health Administration, the Macoupin Energy Recirculation Pond Dam plays a vital role in safeguarding water resources in Macoupin County.
As part of the St. Louis District, this privately-owned dam is subject to state jurisdiction and regulation to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite not having a detailed risk management plan in place, the dam's emergency action plan is periodically reviewed and updated. With its significant contribution to water supply and the surrounding ecosystem, the Macoupin Energy Recirculation Pond Dam stands as a testament to the importance of responsible water resource management in the face of climate change challenges.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
325 |
Dam Height |
43 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB SPANISH NEEDLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
248 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
43 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Macoupin Energy Recirculation Pond Dam