Salem Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Salem Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1912 and is 114 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 21 ft (taller than 32.8% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 775 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 900 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 388 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 78 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 3,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1912 (114 years old) |
| NID ID | IL00245 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
CITY OF SALEM
Local Government
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Low Hazard 22 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Salem Reservoir Dam?
Salem Reservoir Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Salem Reservoir Dam?
Salem Reservoir Dam is owned by CITY OF SALEM (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Salem Reservoir Dam built?
Salem Reservoir Dam was completed in 1912, making it 114 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 Salem Reservoir Dam?
Salem Reservoir 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 Salem Reservoir Dam?
Salem Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 21 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 Salem Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Salem Reservoir Dam was last inspected on July 18, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.