Fairfield Side Channel Reservoir New Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Golden Gate, Illinois, the Fairfield Side Channel Reservoir New Dam is a vital water supply infrastructure owned by the local government and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.


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Summary

Designed by HENRY, MEISENHEIMER & GENDE, INC., this Earth type dam stands at a height of 14.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 90.77 acre-feet, with a primary purpose of water supply for the surrounding area.

Built on the TRIB LITTLE WABASH R river stream, this dam boasts a surface area of 11 acres and a maximum discharge capacity of 604.6 cubic feet per second. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the Fairfield Side Channel Reservoir New Dam ensures the safety and security of the local community while providing essential water resources. Although the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, it undergoes regular inspections every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity and functionality.

Overall, the Fairfield Side Channel Reservoir New Dam serves as a crucial component of the water supply infrastructure in Wayne County, Illinois. With its strategic location and efficient design, this dam plays a significant role in mitigating water scarcity issues and supporting the region's climate resilience efforts. As a key asset in water management and conservation, this dam exemplifies the importance of sustainable water resource development in the face of changing climate patterns.

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

14.5

River Or Stream

TRIB LITTLE WABASH R

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Drainage Area

0.02

Nid Storage

90.77

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.