North Aurora Dam

FOX RIVER· Kane, Illinois· Built 1974· Gravity· 6 ft tall
Significant Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Local Government

Key Takeaway

North Aurora Dam is classified as significant hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1974 and is 52 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 6 ft (taller than 0.1% in IL)
Dam Length375 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage159 acre-ft
Normal Storage159 acre-ft
Year Completed1974 (52 years old)
NID IDIL00917

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: November 1, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: IDNR

Ownership

FOX VALLEY PARK DISTRICT

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of North Aurora Dam?

North Aurora 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 North Aurora Dam?

North Aurora Dam is owned by FOX VALLEY PARK DISTRICT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was North Aurora Dam built?

North Aurora Dam was completed in 1974, making it 52 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 North Aurora Dam?

North Aurora Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is North Aurora Dam?

North Aurora Dam has a dam height of 6 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 North Aurora Dam last inspected?

North Aurora Dam was last inspected on November 1, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.