Matthews Pond 1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mathews Pond Dam 2 Kilton Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Matthews Pond 1 in Litchfield, Illinois, is a privately owned irrigation reservoir designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
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Summary
Built in 1969, this earth dam stands at 25 feet high and spans 400 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 122 acre-feet for water from the TR- SHOAL CREEK W W FORK. With a normal storage capacity of 72 acre-feet and a low hazard potential, this reservoir covers a surface area of 9 acres and serves as a vital water resource for agricultural purposes in the area.
Managed by the St. Louis District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Matthews Pond 1 has a maximum discharge rate of 253 cubic feet per second and features a spillway width of 30 feet. While the condition assessment is not currently available, the dam has undergone regular state inspections and is equipped with state-mandated permitting and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and functionality. With its strategic location and efficient design, this reservoir plays a crucial role in supporting irrigation activities and water management efforts in Montgomery County, Illinois.
Despite its modest size and limited associated structures, Matthews Pond 1 stands as a testament to effective water resource management and conservation practices. With a history of providing essential irrigation water for agricultural operations in the region, this reservoir represents a harmonious blend of ecological stewardship and agricultural sustainability. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of maintaining and enhancing infrastructure like Matthews Pond 1 becomes increasingly evident in ensuring a resilient and secure water supply for future generations.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR- SHOAL CREEK W W FORK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Drainage Area |
0.25 |
Nid Storage |
122 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Matthews Pond 1