Sylvan Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Sylvan Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 15 ft (taller than 16.3% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 120 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 207 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 141 acre-ft |
| Year Completed | 1920 (106 years old) |
| NID ID | IL00640 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
SYLVAN LAKE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION
Private
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Significant Hazard 8 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sylvan Lake Dam?
Sylvan Lake 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 Sylvan Lake Dam?
Sylvan Lake Dam is owned by SYLVAN LAKE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sylvan Lake Dam built?
Sylvan Lake Dam was completed in 1920, making it 106 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 Sylvan Lake Dam?
Sylvan 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 Sylvan Lake Dam?
Sylvan Lake Dam has a dam height of 15 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 Sylvan Lake Dam last inspected?
Sylvan Lake Dam was last inspected on December 12, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.