Mitchell Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Located in Mackinaw, Illinois, Mitchell Lake Dam is a private earth dam constructed in 1959 for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Standing at 58 feet high and spanning 327 feet in length, this dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 238 acre-feet and a normal storage volume of 144 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the tributary of the Mackinaw River, under the regulatory jurisdiction of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
Although the dam has a low hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating, it lacks condition assessment data and Emergency Action Plan (EAP) preparedness. The last inspection of Mitchell Lake Dam was conducted in 2015, with a scheduled inspection frequency of 5 years. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam remains a popular spot for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation in Tazewell County, Illinois.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, Mitchell Lake Dam serves as a vital structure for both local recreation and water management. With its serene location and historical significance, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of balancing human needs with environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
327 |
Dam Height |
58 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB MACKINAW RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
238 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
58 |
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.
Mitchell Lake Dam