Waukegan Station West Ash Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Waukegan, Illinois, the Waukegan Station West Ash Pond is a significant earth dam structure with a height of 20 feet and a storage capacity of 140 acre-feet.


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Summary

Completed in 1979, this pond serves a primary purpose of "Other" and is under state regulation by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). With a hazard potential classified as "Significant" and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam is subject to regular inspections to ensure its safety and integrity.

The Waukegan Station West Ash Pond sits along the tributary of Lake Michigan, making it crucial for managing water resources in the area. Despite its limited surface area of 10 acres, this dam plays a vital role in flood control and water storage for the surrounding region. It is important to note that the spillway type is listed as "Uncontrolled," highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to prevent potential risks and ensure the safety of nearby communities.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the Waukegan Station West Ash Pond serves as a key asset in managing water flow and mitigating flood risks. With its state-regulated status and regular inspections, this earth dam structure remains a critical component of the region's water management system. Enthusiasts and stakeholders interested in water resources and climate resilience can appreciate the importance of this facility in safeguarding the environment and local communities against potential water-related hazards.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TRIB LAKE MICHIGAN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Nid Storage

140

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
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.