Lake Ellyn Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Ellyn Dam is classified as significant hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1991 and is 35 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 12 ft (taller than 10% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 200 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 96 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 40 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 14 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 28 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1991 (35 years old) |
| NID ID | IL50298 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
GLEN ELLYN PARK DISTRICT
Private
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High Hazard 11 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Ellyn Dam?
Lake Ellyn 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 Lake Ellyn Dam?
Lake Ellyn Dam is owned by GLEN ELLYN PARK DISTRICT (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Ellyn Dam built?
Lake Ellyn Dam was completed in 1991, making it 35 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 Ellyn Dam?
Lake Ellyn 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 Lake Ellyn Dam?
Lake Ellyn 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 Lake Ellyn Dam last inspected?
Lake Ellyn Dam was last inspected on August 19, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.