Lake Sara Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Sara Dam is classified as significant hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1957 and is 69 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 65 ft (taller than 96.3% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 1,625 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 20.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 11.7K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 586 acres |
| Drainage Area | 12 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 16,450 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1957 (69 years old) |
| NID ID | IL00607 |
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
EFFINGHAM WATER AUTHORITY
Public Utility
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Significant Hazard 42 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Sara Dam?
Lake Sara 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 Sara Dam?
Lake Sara Dam is owned by EFFINGHAM WATER AUTHORITY (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Sara Dam built?
Lake Sara Dam was completed in 1957, making it 69 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 Sara Dam?
Lake Sara 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 Sara Dam?
Lake Sara Dam has a dam height of 65 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 Sara Dam last inspected?
Lake Sara Dam was last inspected on October 29, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.