Dresden Island Lock and Dam, located in Morris, Illinois, along the Illinois River, was completed in 1933 by the US Army Corps of Engineers for the primary purpose of navigation.
Wind
Humidity
This concrete dam with a hydraulic height of 22 feet and a structural height of 33 feet plays a crucial role in managing water levels and maintaining structural integrity along the river. With a spillway width of 966 feet and a controlled spillway type, the dam has a significant hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating.
The dam, with a length of 1750 feet and a storage capacity of 12,000 acre-feet, faces the challenges of flood risk associated with severe weather events and inconsistent water inflows. To address these risks, the US Army Corps of Engineers continually monitors the dam's condition, prioritizes risk-reducing activities, and collaborates with local emergency managers to raise awareness and prepare for potential dam-related emergencies. Regular maintenance and updates to the emergency action plan are essential components of the risk management measures in place for Dresden Island Lock and Dam.
As a critical infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience, Dresden Island Lock and Dam showcases the importance of proactive risk management and collaboration between federal agencies and local stakeholders. With its historical significance and ongoing efforts to address flood risks, the dam serves as a vital component of the water infrastructure in Grundy County, Illinois, protecting communities along the Illinois River and ensuring safe navigation for waterway users.
Year Completed |
1933 |
Dam Length |
1750 |
River Or Stream |
ILLINOIS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
2180 |
Length Of Locks |
600 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
7278 |
Nid Storage |
12000 |
Structural Height |
33 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 9, Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
33 |
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2240cfs |
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4cfs |
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196cfs |
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25cfs |
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10cfs |
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2cfs |