Whitfield Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 23, 2025
Whitfield Lake Dam, located in Macoupin County, Illinois, was completed in 1954 by the USDA NRCS and is primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
The dam, standing at 30 feet in height and stretching 320 feet in length, has a storage capacity of 205 acre-feet with a normal storage level of 122 acre-feet. Situated on Adams Branch, the dam's spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 35 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 136 cubic feet per second.
Despite its low hazard potential, Whitfield Lake Dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections every 5 years. The dam's risk assessment is categorized as moderate, indicating a level 3 risk. While the condition assessment is not available, the dam is deemed to meet regulatory guidelines, and emergency action plans are in place. Overall, Whitfield Lake Dam serves as a vital water resource for the community, offering recreational opportunities while ensuring safety and risk management measures are in place for potential emergencies.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
320 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
ADAMS BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Drainage Area |
0.1 |
Nid Storage |
205 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.
Whitfield Lake Dam