Keeven Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Located in Columbia, Illinois, Keeven Lake Dam is a private structure designed by Suzanne Goldak for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1998, this Earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet with a length of 300 feet, providing a storage capacity of 140 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Prairie Du Long Creek and is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

With a spillway width of 56 feet and a maximum discharge of 567.5 cubic feet per second, Keeven Lake Dam has a significant hazard potential and is inspected every three years. While the condition assessment is not available, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level (3) based on risk assessment. The dam's primary purpose is irrigation, serving the local agricultural community by providing water storage for irrigation needs.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Keeven Lake Dam offers a glimpse into the infrastructure supporting agricultural activities in Monroe County, Illinois. The dam's location, design characteristics, and regulatory oversight present a unique case study in water resource management and the intersection of human activity with natural systems. As efforts continue to ensure the safety and efficiency of the dam, its role in sustaining local agriculture underscores the importance of responsible water use in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1998

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

PRAIRIE DU LONG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.75

Drainage Area

0.8

Nid Storage

140

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.