Argyle Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Argyle Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1949 and is 77 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 58 ft (taller than 95% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 670 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 4.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 114 acres |
| Drainage Area | 623 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 13,580 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1949 (77 years old) |
| NID ID | IL00270 |
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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Low Hazard 27 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Argyle Lake Dam?
Argyle Lake 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 Argyle Lake Dam?
Argyle Lake 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 Argyle Lake Dam built?
Argyle Lake Dam was completed in 1949, making it 77 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 Argyle Lake Dam?
Argyle Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Argyle Lake Dam?
Argyle Lake Dam has a dam height of 58 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 Argyle Lake Dam last inspected?
Argyle Lake Dam was last inspected on May 23, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.