Crystal Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Crystal Lake Dam, located in Springfield, Illinois, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1995 by GUILLOU & ASSOCIATES, this Earth-type dam stands at 18 feet high and spans 455 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 82 acre-feet and a surface area of 10 acres, this dam holds back the waters of TRIB SPRING CREEK, serving as a popular spot for outdoor activities such as fishing and boating.

Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), Crystal Lake Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk rating of 3, prompting the need for risk management measures to be put in place. Although the condition assessment is not available, the dam is subject to regular inspections every five years to monitor its structural integrity and overall safety.

With an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, this recreational dam provides a serene and picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy. As the waters of Crystal Lake Dam continue to flow, it serves as a vital component of the local ecosystem and a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Sangamon County, Illinois.

Year Completed

1995

Dam Length

455

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TRIB SPRING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

82

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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.