Melvin Price Locks And Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Melvin Price Locks and Dam, located on the Mississippi River in Alton, Illinois, is a federal structure owned and managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.
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Summary
Completed in 1990, this concrete dam stands at 72 feet tall and has a hydraulic height of 49 feet, serving primarily for navigation purposes. With a length of 1700 feet and a storage capacity of 238,000 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and flow along the Mississippi River.
The dam's spillway is controlled and spans 1160 feet, with two locks measuring 1200 feet long and 110 feet wide. Despite its significant hazard potential, the US Army Corps of Engineers closely monitors and manages the dam to mitigate flood risks. Regular inspections, maintenance, and updates to the emergency action plan ensure the dam's structural integrity and readiness to respond to any potential emergencies. The Corps actively collaborates with local emergency managers and the public to raise awareness and prepare for potential dam-related incidents, reflecting a commitment to safeguarding water resources and climate resilience in the region.
In the face of unpredictable weather events and changing hydrological conditions, Melvin Price Locks and Dam stands as a critical infrastructure for water resource management. Its role in regulating water flow, supporting navigation, and addressing flood risks underscores the importance of proactive risk management and preparedness in safeguarding communities and ecosystems along the Mississippi River. With ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts, this dam serves as a testament to the dedication of the US Army Corps of Engineers in ensuring the safety and resilience of water resources in the region.
Year Completed |
1990 |
Dam Length |
1700 |
Dam Height |
72 |
River Or Stream |
MISSISSIPPI RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
30000 |
Length Of Locks |
1200 |
Hydraulic Height |
49 |
Drainage Area |
171470 |
Nid Storage |
238000 |
Structural Height |
77 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
77 |
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.
Melvin Price Locks And Dam
Riverlands Way West Alton