Chicago River and Harbor Controlling Works
Key Takeaway
Chicago River and Harbor Controlling Works is classified as high hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1938 and is 88 years old. Its primary use is navigation. 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 | 31 ft (taller than 66.2% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 0 ft |
| Dam Type | Other |
| Max Storage | 1.0M acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.0M acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1938 (88 years old) |
| NID ID | IL55094 |
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
USACE - Chicago District
Federal Government
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Chicago River and Harbor Controlling Works?
Chicago River and Harbor Controlling Works 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 Chicago River and Harbor Controlling Works?
Chicago River and Harbor Controlling Works is owned by USACE - Chicago District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Chicago River and Harbor Controlling Works built?
Chicago River and Harbor Controlling Works was completed in 1938, making it 88 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 Chicago River and Harbor Controlling Works?
Chicago River and Harbor Controlling Works serves the following purposes: Navigation, Other, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Chicago River and Harbor Controlling Works?
Chicago River and Harbor Controlling Works has a dam height of 31 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 Chicago River and Harbor Controlling Works last inspected?
Chicago River and Harbor Controlling Works was last inspected on April 19, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.