Little Grassy Dam is a Federal-owned structure located in Carbondale, Illinois, along the picturesque Little Grassy Creek.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1942, this Earth dam stands at a height of 88 feet and serves multiple purposes, including fish and wildlife pond management, flood risk reduction, and recreation. With a normal storage capacity of 24,000 acre-feet and a drainage area of 15.6 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.
Managed by the US Fish & Wildlife Service, Little Grassy Dam has undergone several modifications over the years to enhance its hydraulic, seismic, and structural capabilities. The dam has a spillway width of 598 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 35,943 cubic feet per second. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition, with inspections conducted every three years to ensure its safety and functionality.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the significance of Little Grassy Dam in maintaining ecosystem health and mitigating flood risks in the region. Its strategic location, multiple purposes, and ongoing maintenance efforts by the Fish and Wildlife Service highlight the importance of this structure in sustaining water resources and preserving the natural environment for future generations.
Years Modified |
1992 - Hydraulic, 1992 - Seismic, 1992 - Structural, 2003 - Foundation, 2013 - Structural, 2016 - Other |
Year Completed |
1942 |
Dam Length |
3650 |
Dam Height |
88 |
River Or Stream |
Little Grassy Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
960 |
Hydraulic Height |
87 |
Drainage Area |
15.6 |
Nid Storage |
30900 |
Structural Height |
88 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled, Valve |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
88 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Little Grassy Campground & Marina
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Devil's Kitchen Campground
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Horse Campground
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Turkey Ridge Tent Campground
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