Denbys Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Denbys Pond Dam, located in Carlinville, Illinois, is a privately-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1974, this earth dam stands at 38 feet in height and spans 445 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 215 acre-feet and a normal storage of 159 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Macoupin Creek, is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Denbys Pond Dam poses minimal risk to surrounding areas. The dam's spillway, outlet gates, and uncontrolled design contribute to its overall risk management measures. Although the condition assessment is not available, the structure has been inspected as recently as September 2014, with an inspection frequency of 5 years. Despite the lack of detailed information on emergency action plans and inundation maps, the dam's risk level is deemed manageable with proper monitoring and maintenance.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Denbys Pond Dam an intriguing site due to its unique design and purpose for recreation. The dam's location on Macoupin Creek provides opportunities for outdoor activities and wildlife habitat, while its history and construction by the USDA NRCS add to its appeal. With a focus on safety and risk assessment, this privately-owned dam serves as a valuable asset in the management of water resources in Macoupin County, Illinois.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
445 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
MACOUPIN CREEK-OFFSTREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Drainage Area |
0.1 |
Nid Storage |
215 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
38 |
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.
Denbys Pond Dam