Otter Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Otter Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1969 and is 57 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 71 ft (taller than 97.4% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 1,010 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 24.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 15.6K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 760 acres |
| Drainage Area | 20 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 21,153 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1969 (57 years old) |
| NID ID | IL00133 |
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
OTTER LAKE WATER COMMISSION
Public Utility
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Low Hazard 40 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Otter Lake Dam?
Otter Lake 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 Otter Lake Dam?
Otter Lake Dam is owned by OTTER LAKE WATER COMMISSION (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Otter Lake Dam built?
Otter Lake 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 Otter Lake Dam?
Otter Lake 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 Otter Lake Dam?
Otter Lake Dam has a dam height of 71 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 Otter Lake Dam last inspected?
Otter Lake Dam was last inspected on April 30, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.