Lake Hillsboro Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Hillsboro Dam is classified as significant hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1917 and is 109 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 34 ft (taller than 73.9% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 693 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 879 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 107 acres |
| Drainage Area | 7 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 3,276 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1917 (109 years old) |
| NID ID | IL00699 |
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
CITY OF HILLSBORO
Local Government
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Low Hazard 28 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Hillsboro Dam?
Lake Hillsboro 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 Hillsboro Dam?
Lake Hillsboro Dam is owned by CITY OF HILLSBORO (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Hillsboro Dam built?
Lake Hillsboro Dam was completed in 1917, making it 109 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 Hillsboro Dam?
Lake Hillsboro 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 Lake Hillsboro Dam?
Lake Hillsboro Dam has a dam height of 34 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 Hillsboro Dam last inspected?
Lake Hillsboro Dam was last inspected on February 18, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.