Olmsted Locks and Dam
Key Takeaway
Olmsted Locks and Dam is classified as significant hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 2018 and is 8 years old. Its primary use is navigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 49 ft (taller than 91.2% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 3,575 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 728.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 425.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 19,000 acres |
| Drainage Area | 203,000 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 2018 (8 years old) |
| NID ID | IL50745 |
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
USACE - Louisville District
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Olmsted Locks and Dam?
Olmsted Locks and 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 Olmsted Locks and Dam?
Olmsted Locks and Dam is owned by USACE - Louisville District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Olmsted Locks and Dam built?
Olmsted Locks and Dam was completed in 2018, making it 8 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 Olmsted Locks and Dam?
Olmsted Locks and Dam serves the following purposes: Navigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Olmsted Locks and Dam?
Olmsted Locks and Dam has a dam height of 49 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 Olmsted Locks and Dam last inspected?
Olmsted Locks and Dam was last inspected on August 20, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.