Algonquin Dam
Key Takeaway
Algonquin Dam is classified as significant hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1947 and is 79 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 9 ft (taller than 3.9% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 300 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 24.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Year Completed | 1947 (79 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2003 |
| NID ID | IL55063 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
State Government
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Significant Hazard 23 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Algonquin Dam?
Algonquin Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Algonquin Dam?
Algonquin Dam is owned by ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Algonquin Dam built?
Algonquin Dam was completed in 1947, making it 79 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 Algonquin Dam?
Algonquin Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Algonquin Dam?
Algonquin Dam has a dam height of 9 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 Algonquin Dam last inspected?
Algonquin Dam was last inspected on April 26, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.