Absher Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Absher Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1968 and is 58 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 15 ft (taller than 16.3% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 565 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 78 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 59 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 12 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 19 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1968 (58 years old) |
| NID ID | IL01012 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
JANE ABSHER
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Absher Lake Dam?
Absher Lake Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Absher Lake Dam?
Absher Lake Dam is owned by JANE ABSHER (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Absher Lake Dam built?
Absher Lake Dam was completed in 1968, making it 58 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Absher Lake Dam?
Absher Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Absher Lake Dam?
Absher Lake Dam has a dam height of 15 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Absher Lake Dam last inspected?
Absher Lake Dam was last inspected on June 3, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.