Fitzgerald Lake Dam West Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Fitzgerald Lake Dam West, located in Jo Daviess, Illinois, stands as a crucial structure for fire protection, stock, and a small fish pond.
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Summary
Constructed in 1965, this earth dam reaches a height of 13 feet with a length of 330 feet, providing a storage capacity of 124 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Situated on the TRIB RUSH CREEK, this dam plays a vital role in water resource management and recreation in the Blackhawk-Offstream area. While it lacks a spillway, the dam's design and purpose contribute to the overall environmental and recreational landscape of the region. With a risk assessment rating of high (2), efforts are being made to implement risk management measures and ensure the safety and functionality of the dam for the community and wildlife in the area.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the significance of Fitzgerald Lake Dam West lies in its role in providing essential services while managing potential risks. With its primary purpose centered around fire protection and recreational activities, this earth dam in Illinois serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water infrastructure and conservation efforts in the region. By staying informed and engaged in the maintenance and regulation of structures like Fitzgerald Lake Dam West, enthusiasts can contribute to the preservation and enhancement of water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
330 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB RUSH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
124 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Apple River Near Hanover
|
110cfs |
Sinsinawa River Near Menominee
|
19cfs |
Maquoketa River Near Maquoketa
|
569cfs |
North Fork Maquoketa River Near Fulton
|
245cfs |
Pecatonica River At Martintown
|
473cfs |
Pecatonica River At Freeport
|
694cfs |
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.
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