Lake Summerset Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Summerset Dam is classified as high hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1969 and is 57 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 44 ft (taller than 87.3% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 1,794 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 7.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 5.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 301 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,230 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1969 (57 years old) |
| NID ID | IL00572 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
LAKE SUMMERSET ASSOCIATION, INC.
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Summerset Dam?
Lake Summerset Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Lake Summerset Dam?
Lake Summerset Dam is owned by LAKE SUMMERSET ASSOCIATION, INC. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Summerset Dam built?
Lake Summerset Dam was completed in 1969, making it 57 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 Summerset Dam?
Lake Summerset 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 Summerset Dam?
Lake Summerset Dam has a dam height of 44 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 Summerset Dam last inspected?
Lake Summerset Dam was last inspected on April 7, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.