Caraness Lake Dam

TRIB HICKS BRANCH· Hardin, Illinois· Built 1959· Earth· 37 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Caraness Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1959 and is 67 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 37 ft (taller than 79.6% in IL)
Dam Length370 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage94 acre-ft
Normal Storage74 acre-ft
Year Completed1959 (67 years old)
NID IDIL00099

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 3, 2019
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: IDNR

Ownership

J. D. CARANESS

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Caraness Lake Dam?

Caraness 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 Caraness Lake Dam?

Caraness Lake Dam is owned by J. D. CARANESS (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Caraness Lake Dam built?

Caraness Lake Dam was completed in 1959, making it 67 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 Caraness Lake Dam?

Caraness Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Caraness Lake Dam?

Caraness Lake Dam has a dam height of 37 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 Caraness Lake Dam last inspected?

Caraness Lake Dam was last inspected on October 3, 2019. 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.