Lake Edward Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 30, 2025
Lake Edward Dam, located in Macoupin, Illinois, is a private-owned earth dam primarily used for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1949, this 20-foot tall structure holds a maximum storage capacity of 78 acre-feet with a normal storage level of 51 acre-feet. The dam spans 267 feet in length and features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 43 feet.
Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Lake Edward Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Inspected every five years, the dam remains in overall good condition with no available assessment data. While its emergency action plan status is not specified, the dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state, ensuring its safety and compliance with standards. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Edward Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human engineering and environmental stewardship in managing water resources for recreational purposes.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
267 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB SPRING CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
78 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Lake Edward Dam