Georgetown Dam

LITTLE VERMILLION RIVER· Vermilion, Illinois· Built 1937· Gravity· 14 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Water Supply Local Government

Key Takeaway

Georgetown Dam is classified as significant hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1937 and is 89 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 14 ft (taller than 14.5% in IL)
Dam Length272 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage126 acre-ft
Normal Storage126 acre-ft
Year Completed1937 (89 years old)
NID IDIL00817

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: August 31, 2018
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: IDNR

Ownership

CITY OF GEORGETOWN

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Georgetown Dam?

Georgetown Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Georgetown Dam?

Georgetown Dam is owned by CITY OF GEORGETOWN (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Georgetown Dam built?

Georgetown Dam was completed in 1937, making it 89 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 Georgetown Dam?

Georgetown 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 Georgetown Dam?

Georgetown Dam has a dam height of 14 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 Georgetown Dam last inspected?

Georgetown Dam was last inspected on August 31, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.