Spaulding Dam
Key Takeaway
Spaulding Dam is classified as high hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1933 and is 93 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 | 48 ft (taller than 90.6% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 3,300 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 101.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 53.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 4,224 acres |
| Drainage Area | 265 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 58,100 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1933 (93 years old) |
| NID ID | IL00749 |
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 WATER, LIGHT & POWER
Public Utility
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Low Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Spaulding Dam?
Spaulding 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 Spaulding Dam?
Spaulding Dam is owned by CITY WATER, LIGHT & POWER (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Spaulding Dam built?
Spaulding Dam was completed in 1933, making it 93 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 Spaulding Dam?
Spaulding 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 Spaulding Dam?
Spaulding Dam has a dam height of 48 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 Spaulding Dam last inspected?
Spaulding Dam was last inspected on February 8, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.