Smallpox Creek Dam
Key Takeaway
Smallpox Creek Dam is classified as high hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1974 and is 52 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 | 60 ft (taller than 95.6% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 1,100 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 6.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 4.2K acre-ft |
| Max Discharge | 23,070 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1974 (52 years old) |
| NID ID | IL01003 |
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
GALENA TERRITORY ASSOCIATION, INC.
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Smallpox Creek Dam?
Smallpox Creek 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 Smallpox Creek Dam?
Smallpox Creek Dam is owned by GALENA TERRITORY ASSOCIATION, INC. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Smallpox Creek Dam built?
Smallpox Creek Dam was completed in 1974, making it 52 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 Smallpox Creek Dam?
Smallpox Creek 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 Smallpox Creek Dam?
Smallpox Creek Dam has a dam height of 60 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 Smallpox Creek Dam last inspected?
Smallpox Creek Dam was last inspected on October 8, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.