Valier Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Valier Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1905 and is 121 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 | 21 ft (taller than 32.8% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 1,710 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 890 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 330 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 71 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 5,670 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1905 (121 years old) |
| NID ID | IL00019 |
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
GEORGE O. SLANKARD
Private
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Low Hazard 47 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Valier Lake Dam?
Valier Lake 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 Valier Lake Dam?
Valier Lake Dam is owned by GEORGE O. SLANKARD (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Valier Lake Dam built?
Valier Lake Dam was completed in 1905, making it 121 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 Valier Lake Dam?
Valier 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 Valier Lake Dam?
Valier Lake Dam has a dam height of 21 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 Valier Lake Dam last inspected?
Valier Lake Dam was last inspected on August 31, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.