Smithland Locks and Dam

OHIO RIVER· Livingston, Illinois· Built 1980· Concrete·
Significant Hazard Navigation Fish And Wildlife Pond Recreation Water Supply Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Smithland Locks and Dam is classified as significant hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1980 and is 46 years old. Its primary use is navigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length130 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage738.7K acre-ft
Normal Storage406.0K acre-ft
Surface Area23,600 acres
Drainage Area144,000 sq mi
Max Discharge190,000 cfs
Year Completed1980 (46 years old)
NID IDIL50499

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: Yes
Last Inspection: August 3, 2022
State Regulated: No

Ownership

USACE - Louisville District

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Smithland Locks and Dam?

Smithland Locks and 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 Smithland Locks and Dam?

Smithland Locks and Dam is owned by USACE - Louisville District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Smithland Locks and Dam built?

Smithland Locks and Dam was completed in 1980, making it 46 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 Smithland Locks and Dam?

Smithland Locks and Dam serves the following purposes: Navigation, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Smithland Locks and Dam last inspected?

Smithland Locks and Dam was last inspected on August 3, 2022. 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.