Tara Lake Dam

TRIB JELKES CREEK· Kane, Illinois· Built 1964· Earth· 23 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Tara Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1964 and is 62 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 23 ft (taller than 37.7% in IL)
Dam Length500 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage63 acre-ft
Normal Storage57 acre-ft
Surface Area8 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Max Discharge65 cfs
Year Completed1964 (62 years old)
NID IDIL00906

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: No
Last Inspection: July 21, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: IDNR

Ownership

ALAN EVANS & JON KEITH

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Tara Lake Dam?

Tara 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 Tara Lake Dam?

Tara Lake Dam is owned by ALAN EVANS & JON KEITH (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Tara Lake Dam built?

Tara Lake Dam was completed in 1964, making it 62 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 Tara Lake Dam?

Tara 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 Tara Lake Dam?

Tara Lake Dam has a dam height of 23 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 Tara Lake Dam last inspected?

Tara Lake Dam was last inspected on July 21, 2023. 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.