Forest Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Forest Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1935 and is 91 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 | 11 ft (taller than 8.1% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 125 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 561 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 457 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 38 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,684 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1935 (91 years old) |
| NID ID | IL00638 |
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
ELA TOWNSHIP HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 14 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Forest Lake Dam?
Forest 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 Forest Lake Dam?
Forest Lake Dam is owned by ELA TOWNSHIP HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Forest Lake Dam built?
Forest Lake Dam was completed in 1935, making it 91 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 Forest Lake Dam?
Forest Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Forest Lake Dam?
Forest Lake Dam has a dam height of 11 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 Forest Lake Dam last inspected?
Forest Lake Dam was last inspected on May 11, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.