The Grove Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
The Grove Dam, located in Downs, Illinois, along the Kickapoo Creek, serves as a vital structure for flood risk reduction in the area.
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Summary
Constructed in 2011 by the Farnsworth Group, this earth dam stands at a height of 7 feet and spans a length of 300 feet, providing a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet. Despite its relatively low hazard potential, The Grove Dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.
With a drainage area of 13.7 square miles and a surface area of 88 acres, The Grove Dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow along the Kickapoo Creek. While it currently lacks a spillway, its low hazard potential and high risk assessment rating signify the importance of proper maintenance and risk management measures. The dam's emergency action plan status, condition assessment, and risk management strategies are areas that may need further attention to enhance its overall effectiveness in flood risk reduction.
As a local government-owned structure, The Grove Dam exemplifies the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in the face of increasing extreme weather events. Its presence not only safeguards the surrounding McLean County community but also highlights the ongoing need for proactive measures to adapt to changing environmental conditions. By staying vigilant in monitoring and maintaining this essential infrastructure, stakeholders can continue to mitigate flood risks and ensure the long-term sustainability of water resources in the region.
Year Completed |
2011 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
7 |
River Or Stream |
KICKAPOO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
88 |
Drainage Area |
13.7 |
Nid Storage |
150 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
7 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sugar Creek Near Bloomington
|
23cfs |
Kickapoo Creek At Waynesville
|
11cfs |
Mackinaw River Near Congerville
|
19cfs |
Salt Creek Near Rowell
|
15cfs |
Sangamon River At Fisher
|
12cfs |
Vermilion River At Pontiac
|
12cfs |
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.
The Grove Dam