Alpine Dam
Key Takeaway
Alpine Dam is classified as high hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1942 and is 84 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 48 ft (taller than 90.6% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 600 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Drainage Area | 7 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 17,429 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1942 (84 years old) |
| NID ID | IL00109 |
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
CITY OF ROCKFORD
Local Government
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High Hazard 46 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Alpine Dam?
Alpine 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 Alpine Dam?
Alpine Dam is owned by CITY OF ROCKFORD (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Alpine Dam built?
Alpine Dam was completed in 1942, making it 84 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 Alpine Dam?
Alpine Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Alpine Dam?
Alpine Dam has a dam height of 48 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 Alpine Dam last inspected?
Alpine Dam was last inspected on August 9, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.