Nixon Pond Dam 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Nixon Pond Dam 1, located in Jalapa, Illinois, is a privately owned earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1977 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a length of 394 feet, providing a storage capacity of 65 acre-feet. The dam sits on Bear Creek S and is regulated by the state agency IDNR, with inspection, permitting, and enforcement all conducted by the state.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Nixon Pond Dam 1 is a vital part of the water resource infrastructure in Macoupin, Illinois. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 100 feet, capable of handling a maximum discharge of 875 cubic feet per second. While the condition assessment is not available, the dam remains a popular spot for recreational activities, offering a surface area of 5 acres for visitors to enjoy.

As a key feature in the Rock Island District, Nixon Pond Dam 1 serves as a prime example of collaboration between private ownership and government agencies in managing water resources. With its historic significance dating back to the late 20th century, this dam continues to be a focal point for water enthusiasts and climate advocates alike, showcasing the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

394

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

TR- BEAR CREEK S

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Drainage Area

0.55

Nid Storage

65

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

22
       
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.