Lake Murphysboro Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Murphysboro Dam is classified as significant hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1947 and is 79 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 46 ft (taller than 88.9% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 590 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 4.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 166 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 9,171 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1947 (79 years old) |
| NID ID | IL00021 |
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
ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
State Government
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Low Hazard 15 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Murphysboro Dam?
Lake Murphysboro 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 Murphysboro Dam?
Lake Murphysboro Dam is owned by ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Murphysboro Dam built?
Lake Murphysboro Dam was completed in 1947, making it 79 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 Murphysboro Dam?
Lake Murphysboro 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 Murphysboro Dam?
Lake Murphysboro Dam has a dam height of 46 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 Murphysboro Dam last inspected?
Lake Murphysboro Dam was last inspected on July 11, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.