Buffalo Drive Dam
Key Takeaway
Buffalo Drive Dam is classified as significant hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1950 and is 76 years old. Its primary use is fish and wildlife pond. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 24 ft (taller than 40.5% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 280 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 14 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 10 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 249 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1950 (76 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2003 |
| NID ID | IL50487 |
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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What is the hazard classification of Buffalo Drive Dam?
Buffalo Drive 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 Buffalo Drive Dam?
Buffalo Drive 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 Buffalo Drive Dam built?
Buffalo Drive Dam was completed in 1950, making it 76 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 Buffalo Drive Dam?
Buffalo Drive Dam serves the following purposes: Fish And Wildlife Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Buffalo Drive Dam?
Buffalo Drive Dam has a dam height of 24 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 Buffalo Drive Dam last inspected?
Buffalo Drive Dam was last inspected on April 26, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.