Batavia Dam

FOX RIVER· Kane, Illinois· Built 1916· Earth· 6 ft tall
Significant Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Local Government

Key Takeaway

Batavia Dam is classified as significant hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1916 and is 110 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 6 ft (taller than 0.1% in IL)
Dam Length300 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage169 acre-ft
Normal Storage169 acre-ft
Year Completed1916 (110 years old)
Year Modified1964
NID IDIL00915

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: October 6, 2017
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: IDNR

Ownership

CITY OF BATAVIA

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Batavia Dam?

Batavia 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 Batavia Dam?

Batavia Dam is owned by CITY OF BATAVIA (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Batavia Dam built?

Batavia Dam was completed in 1916, making it 110 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 Batavia Dam?

Batavia 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 Batavia Dam?

Batavia Dam has a dam height of 6 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 Batavia Dam last inspected?

Batavia Dam was last inspected on October 6, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.