Msdgc Upper Acid Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Msdgc Upper Acid Lake Dam, also known as Lower Ue Lake, is a local government-owned structure located in Fulton County, Illinois.


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Summary

Built in 1958 by GALE & UNITED ELECTRIC COAL CO., this earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and spans a length of 140 feet. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam offers a storage capacity of 570 acre-feet, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and water sports in the area.

Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Msdgc Upper Acid Lake Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safe operation. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, a moderate risk assessment indicates the need for ongoing risk management measures. While the condition assessment is not currently available, the dam has a regular inspection frequency of 5 years, with the last inspection conducted in November 2017.

Situated on TRIB BIG CREEK-OFFSTREAM, Msdgc Upper Acid Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region. With its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure for flood control and recreational purposes. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of such structures is essential for sustainable development and environmental conservation efforts in Illinois.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

140

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TRIB BIG CREEK-OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

570

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

35
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.