Fawell Dam
Key Takeaway
Fawell Dam is classified as high hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1972 and is 54 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 26 ft (taller than 47.1% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 1,110 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 3.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Drainage Area | 105 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 23,577 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1972 (54 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1999 |
| NID ID | IL01236 |
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
DUPAGE COUNTY
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of Fawell Dam?
Fawell 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 Fawell Dam?
Fawell Dam is owned by DUPAGE COUNTY (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Fawell Dam built?
Fawell Dam was completed in 1972, making it 54 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 Fawell Dam?
Fawell Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Fawell Dam?
Fawell Dam has a dam height of 26 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 Fawell Dam last inspected?
Fawell Dam was last inspected on June 6, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.