Gaffney Pond Dam 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Gaffney Pond Dam 1, located in Hettick, Illinois, was completed in 1977 and serves as a vital structure for fish and wildlife pond management.
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Summary
Designed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and spans 225 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 44 acre-feet. Situated along the TR- Joe's Creek NW, the dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Gaffney Pond Dam 1 plays a crucial role in water resource management and recreational activities in the area. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates ensure proper water flow and management, while its stone core and soil foundation contribute to its structural integrity. Despite its condition assessment being marked as "Not Available," the dam's risk management measures and emergency preparedness protocols are essential for ensuring the safety of surrounding communities and ecosystems.
As a private-owned structure, Gaffney Pond Dam 1 aligns with the primary purpose of enhancing fish and wildlife habitats while providing opportunities for recreational activities. With its strategic location and design elements, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
225 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TR- JOES CREEK NW |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Drainage Area |
0.06 |
Nid Storage |
44 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Macoupin Creek Near Kane
|
20cfs |
Spring Creek At Springfield
|
6cfs |
South Fork Sangamon River Nr Rochester
|
14cfs |
Illinois River At Valley City
|
4670cfs |
Sangamon River At Riverton
|
188cfs |
Sangamon River At Petersburg
|
199cfs |
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.
Gaffney Pond Dam 1