Shale Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Shale Lake Dam is classified as low hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1988 and is 38 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 32 ft (taller than 69.5% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 810 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 575 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 117 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 20 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 7,355 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1988 (38 years old) |
| NID ID | IL00200 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
DAVID & SUSAN WESA
Private
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Low Hazard 23 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Shale Lake Dam?
Shale Lake Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Shale Lake Dam?
Shale Lake Dam is owned by DAVID & SUSAN WESA (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Shale Lake Dam built?
Shale Lake Dam was completed in 1988, making it 38 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 Shale Lake Dam?
Shale 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 Shale Lake Dam?
Shale Lake Dam has a dam height of 32 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 Shale Lake Dam last inspected?
Shale Lake Dam was last inspected on March 7, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.