Mitch King Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Mitch King Dam, located in Hettick, Illinois, along the tributary of Solomon Creek, is a private-owned structure designed by Greene & Bradford, Inc.


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Summary

It serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy nature. The dam stands at a height of 39.5 feet, with a length of 350 feet, and a storage capacity of 53.6 acre-feet.

Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure safety and compliance with standards. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, with moderate risk assessment, the dam has not undergone recent condition assessments. The spillway, with a width of 9 feet, is uncontrolled, and there are no outlet gates or associated structures at the site.

Water resource enthusiasts visiting Mitch King Dam can appreciate its earth dam construction with stone core types and soil foundations. With a surface area of 4.3 acres and a drainage area of 0.05 square miles, the dam contributes to the local ecosystem and offers a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking to connect with nature. The dam's location within Macoupin County, Illinois, makes it a hidden gem for those interested in exploring water resources in the region.

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

39.5

River Or Stream

TRIB SOLOMON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.3

Drainage Area

0.05

Nid Storage

53.6

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

40
       
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.