Lake Thunderbird Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Thunderbird Dam is classified as high hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1970 and is 56 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 | 86 ft (taller than 98.8% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 910 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 3.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.9K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 109 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 3,320 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1970 (56 years old) |
| NID ID | IL00528 |
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 THUNDERBIRD ASSOCIATION
Private
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High Hazard 61 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Thunderbird Dam?
Lake Thunderbird 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 Thunderbird Dam?
Lake Thunderbird Dam is owned by LAKE THUNDERBIRD ASSOCIATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Thunderbird Dam built?
Lake Thunderbird Dam was completed in 1970, making it 56 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 Thunderbird Dam?
Lake Thunderbird 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 Thunderbird Dam?
Lake Thunderbird Dam has a dam height of 86 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 Thunderbird Dam last inspected?
Lake Thunderbird Dam was last inspected on April 27, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.