Fairfield Side Channel Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Fairfield Side Channel Reservoir Dam, located in Wayne County, Illinois, is a crucial water supply infrastructure managed by the local government.
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Summary
Built in 1979, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and spans a length of 1850 feet, with a storage capacity of 328.66 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is to provide water supply for the surrounding area, serving as a vital resource for the community of Golden Gate.
Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, this dam on the tributary of the Little Wabash River is classified as having a low hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment. While its condition assessment is currently unavailable, the dam was last inspected in August 2012 and is subject to regular inspections every 5 years. With a spillway type of uncontrolled, this dam plays a significant role in managing water resources and safeguarding against potential risks in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Fairfield Side Channel Reservoir Dam serves as a focal point in understanding the importance of infrastructure in sustaining water supply in rural communities. With its strategic location and role in water management, this dam exemplifies the intersection of engineering, environmental stewardship, and community resilience in ensuring the sustainable use of water resources in Illinois.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
1850 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB LITTLE WABASH R |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Drainage Area |
0.03 |
Nid Storage |
328.66 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bonpas Creek At Browns
|
0cfs |
Little Wabash River Below Clay City
|
48cfs |
Skillet Fork At Wayne City
|
10cfs |
Little Wabash River At Carmi
|
169cfs |
Wabash River At New Harmony
|
8430cfs |
Wabash River At Mt. Carmel
|
8730cfs |
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.
Fairfield Side Channel Reservoir Dam