Lake Nellie Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Nellie Dam is classified as significant hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 41 ft (taller than 84.9% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 460 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 835 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 67 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 6,095 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1963 (63 years old) |
| NID ID | IL00635 |
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 SAINT ELMO
Local Government
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Low Hazard 26 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Nellie Dam?
Lake Nellie 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 Nellie Dam?
Lake Nellie Dam is owned by CITY OF SAINT ELMO (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Nellie Dam built?
Lake Nellie Dam was completed in 1963, making it 63 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 Nellie Dam?
Lake Nellie 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 Nellie Dam?
Lake Nellie Dam has a dam height of 41 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 Nellie Dam last inspected?
Lake Nellie Dam was last inspected on May 10, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.