Tom Steele Dam
Key Takeaway
Tom Steele Dam is classified as high hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 2005 and is 21 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 | 59 ft (taller than 95.4% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 580 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 610 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 234 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 19 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,113 cfs |
| Year Completed | 2005 (21 years old) |
| NID ID | IL50570 |
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
TOM STEELE
Private
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Low Hazard 26 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Tom Steele Dam?
Tom Steele 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 Tom Steele Dam?
Tom Steele Dam is owned by TOM STEELE (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Tom Steele Dam built?
Tom Steele Dam was completed in 2005, making it 21 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 Tom Steele Dam?
Tom Steele 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 Tom Steele Dam?
Tom Steele Dam has a dam height of 59 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 Tom Steele Dam last inspected?
Tom Steele Dam was last inspected on August 12, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.