Fordam Station Dam
Key Takeaway
Fordam Station Dam is classified as low hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1852 and is 174 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 12 ft (taller than 10% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 705 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 50 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 50 acre-ft |
| Drainage Area | 6,290 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1852 (174 years old) |
| NID ID | IL00107 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
COMMONWEALTH EDISON COMPANY
Private
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Significant Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Fordam Station Dam?
Fordam Station Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Fordam Station Dam?
Fordam Station Dam is owned by COMMONWEALTH EDISON COMPANY (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Fordam Station Dam built?
Fordam Station Dam was completed in 1852, making it 174 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 Fordam Station Dam?
Fordam Station Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Fordam Station Dam?
Fordam Station Dam has a dam height of 12 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 Fordam Station Dam last inspected?
Fordam Station Dam was last inspected on October 17, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.