Ipava Settling Basin Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Timber Pond Dam Heller Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Located in Fulton, Illinois, the Ipava Settling Basin Dam serves as a crucial water resource management structure along the Francis Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1978 by AMAX COAL CO., this private-owned Earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and spans 480 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 478 acre-feet. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam's hazard potential is classified as low, making it a stable and essential component of the local water infrastructure.
Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), the Ipava Settling Basin Dam presents a moderate risk assessment level, indicating a need for continued monitoring and maintenance. The dam's primary purpose is listed as "Other," suggesting a multifunctional role in water resource management. With state-regulated permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, the dam operates under strict guidelines to ensure the safety and integrity of its structure, as well as the surrounding environment.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Ipava Settling Basin Dam offers a fascinating case study in dam engineering and management. From its unique design features to its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, this Earth dam provides valuable insights into the complexities of maintaining water infrastructure in a dynamic natural environment. As a pivotal structure along the Francis Creek, the dam plays a crucial role in flood control, water storage, and environmental protection, highlighting the intricate interplay between human intervention and natural systems in water resource management.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
480 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
FRANCIS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
478 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Spoon River At Seville
|
161cfs |
Spoon River At London Mills
|
86cfs |
La Moine River At Colmar
|
17cfs |
Sangamon River Near Oakford
|
356cfs |
La Moine River At Ripley
|
33cfs |
Illinois River At Kingston Mines
|
5290cfs |
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.
Ipava Settling Basin Dam