Theilen Pond Dam 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Theilen Pond Dam 1, located in Sangamon County, Illinois, is a privately owned earth dam designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1977.
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Summary
The dam, standing at a height of 21 feet and stretching 400 feet in length, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management. It has a storage capacity of 81 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.19 square miles, with a spillway width of 20 feet for uncontrolled discharge.
This dam on TR-Lick Creek is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and undergoes state inspections, permitting, and enforcement. While the hazard potential is currently undetermined, a moderate risk assessment rating has been assigned to Theilen Pond Dam 1. With its location in Springfield and the involvement of federal agencies like the Natural Resources Conservation Service in its design, this dam is a significant piece of infrastructure for water resource management in the area.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Theilen Pond Dam 1 presents an intriguing case study in dam construction and management. Its design and purposes offer valuable insights into how private owners and government agencies collaborate to address various water-related needs, while the risk assessment underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance for the safety and efficiency of such structures. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding the role of dams like Theilen Pond Dam 1 becomes increasingly crucial for sustainable water management practices.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
TR- LICK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Drainage Area |
0.19 |
Nid Storage |
81 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Spring Creek At Springfield
|
7cfs |
South Fork Sangamon River Nr Rochester
|
11cfs |
Sangamon River At Riverton
|
125cfs |
Sangamon River At Petersburg
|
209cfs |
Lake Fork Near Cornland
|
17cfs |
Salt Creek Near Greenview
|
204cfs |
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.
Theilen Pond Dam 1