Lake Charles Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Charles Dam is classified as high hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1962 and is 64 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 | 9 ft (taller than 3.9% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 390 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 494 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 111 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 24 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 4,800 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1962 (64 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1997 |
| NID ID | IL01149 |
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
VILLAGE OF VERNON HILLS
Local Government
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Low Hazard 9 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Charles Dam?
Lake Charles 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 Lake Charles Dam?
Lake Charles Dam is owned by VILLAGE OF VERNON HILLS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Charles Dam built?
Lake Charles Dam was completed in 1962, making it 64 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 Lake Charles Dam?
Lake Charles Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lake Charles Dam?
Lake Charles Dam has a dam height of 9 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 Lake Charles Dam last inspected?
Lake Charles Dam was last inspected on November 11, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.