Ruppert Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Ruppert Pond Dam, located in Montgomery County, Illinois, stands as a vital structure regulating the flow of Shoal Creek's West Fork.


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Summary

Built in 1977 by the USDA NRCS, this rockfill dam serves primarily for recreational purposes and is under the regulatory oversight of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and significant hazard potential, Ruppert Pond Dam has not undergone a recent condition assessment, leaving its overall safety and risk management measures somewhat uncertain.

While the dam's specifics such as height, volume, and storage capacity remain unspecified, its critical role in maintaining water levels for recreation is evident. With a history dating back over four decades, Ruppert Pond Dam continues to be a focal point for water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates alike. Although last inspected in June 2018 and classified as having a moderate risk level, the lack of recent data on its condition and emergency preparedness raises questions about its long-term sustainability and resilience in the face of potential hazards.

As climate change intensifies, the importance of monitoring and maintaining infrastructure like Ruppert Pond Dam becomes increasingly crucial. With its presence in a region experiencing shifting weather patterns and environmental challenges, the dam's role in water management and recreational activities underscores the need for continued vigilance and proactive risk management strategies. Through collaborative efforts between state agencies, dam owners, and the community, ensuring the safety and functionality of Ruppert Pond Dam remains paramount in safeguarding both the environment and public welfare.

Year Completed

1977

River Or Stream

TR- SHOAL CREEK W W FORK

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown
       
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.