Papoose Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Papoose Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1956 and is 70 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 12 ft (taller than 10% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 750 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 143 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 48 acre-ft |
| Year Completed | 1956 (70 years old) |
| NID ID | IL00867 |
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
FOREST PRESERVE DISTRICT OF COOK COUNTY
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of Papoose Lake Dam?
Papoose 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 Papoose Lake Dam?
Papoose Lake Dam is owned by FOREST PRESERVE DISTRICT OF COOK COUNTY (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Papoose Lake Dam built?
Papoose Lake Dam was completed in 1956, making it 70 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 Papoose Lake Dam?
Papoose Lake 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 Papoose Lake Dam?
Papoose Lake Dam has a dam height of 12 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 Papoose Lake Dam last inspected?
Papoose Lake Dam was last inspected on March 31, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.