Crab Orchard Dam
Key Takeaway
Crab Orchard Dam is classified as high hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1939 and is 87 years old. Its primary use is fish and wildlife pond. 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 | 57 ft (taller than 94.8% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 3,800 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 254.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 57.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 6,950 acres |
| Drainage Area | 200 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 167,851 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1939 (87 years old) |
| NID ID | IL00083 |
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
US FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
Federal Government
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Low Hazard 24 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Crab Orchard Dam?
Crab Orchard 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 Crab Orchard Dam?
Crab Orchard Dam is owned by US FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Crab Orchard Dam built?
Crab Orchard Dam was completed in 1939, making it 87 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 Crab Orchard Dam?
Crab Orchard Dam serves the following purposes: Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Crab Orchard Dam?
Crab Orchard Dam has a dam height of 57 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 Crab Orchard Dam last inspected?
Crab Orchard Dam was last inspected on September 28, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.