Staunton Old Mine Refuse Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 30, 2025
Located in Macoupin, Illinois, the Staunton Old Mine Refuse Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience.
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Summary
Constructed in 1984 by CRAWFORD, MURPHY & TILLY, this Earth-type dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene setting for visitors to enjoy. With a height of 45 feet and a length of 350 feet, the dam holds a storage capacity of 31 acre-feet and boasts a low hazard potential, ensuring the safety of surrounding communities.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the dam meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements, highlighting a commitment to maintaining its structural integrity. The dam's spillway, outlet gates, and uncontrolled spillway type further demonstrate the careful consideration given to potential emergency scenarios. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the Staunton Old Mine Refuse Dam remains a vital asset in the region's water resource infrastructure, showcasing the importance of proactive risk management and climate adaptation measures in safeguarding communities against potential hazards.
Year Completed |
1984 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
45 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB SUGAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
31 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
45 |
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.
Staunton Old Mine Refuse Dam