Choate Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Choate Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1907 and is 119 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 25 ft (taller than 42.6% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 700 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 450 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 306 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 34 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 673 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1907 (119 years old) |
| NID ID | IL00063 |
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
UNION COUNTY
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Choate Lake Dam?
Choate Lake Dam 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 Choate Lake Dam?
Choate Lake Dam is owned by UNION COUNTY (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Choate Lake Dam built?
Choate Lake Dam was completed in 1907, making it 119 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 Choate Lake Dam?
Choate 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 Choate Lake Dam?
Choate Lake Dam has a dam height of 25 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 Choate Lake Dam last inspected?
Choate Lake Dam was last inspected on May 9, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.