Patterson Lake Dam

TRIB DISMAL CREEK· Clay, Illinois· Built 1926· Earth· 31 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Patterson Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1926 and is 100 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 31 ft (taller than 66.2% in IL)
Dam Length535 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage309 acre-ft
Normal Storage270 acre-ft
Year Completed1926 (100 years old)
NID IDIL00129

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: June 8, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: IDNR

Ownership

L. P. FISHING CLUB

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Patterson Lake Dam?

Patterson 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 Patterson Lake Dam?

Patterson Lake Dam is owned by L. P. FISHING CLUB (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Patterson Lake Dam built?

Patterson Lake Dam was completed in 1926, making it 100 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 Patterson Lake Dam?

Patterson 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 Patterson Lake Dam?

Patterson Lake Dam has a dam height of 31 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 Patterson Lake Dam last inspected?

Patterson Lake Dam was last inspected on June 8, 2020. 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.