Wiemers Pond Dam 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Wiemers Pond Dam 1, located in Madison County, Illinois, was completed in 1970 and is owned by a private entity.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Designed by USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond usage. With a height of 25 feet and a length of 215 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 85 cubic feet per second. The dam is located on Joutters Creek and is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Despite being classified as having an undetermined hazard potential, the dam is considered to have moderate risk (3) according to the risk assessment. The condition assessment of the dam is currently not available, and the last inspection was conducted in May 2018. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with no locks associated. While the Emergency Action Plan status and risk management measures are not specified, the dam's risk level is being closely monitored.

Wiemers Pond Dam 1 presents an interesting case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts due to its multiple purposes and risk assessment. With its location in a private ownership setting, the dam's management and regulatory oversight by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources provide insights into the challenges and considerations involved in maintaining and monitoring a critical water infrastructure. The dam's moderate risk rating underscores the importance of regular inspections and potential mitigation measures to ensure its safety and effectiveness in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

215

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

JOUTTERS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Drainage Area

0.11

Nid Storage

40

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.