Carlyle Dam, also known as Carlyle Lake, is a vital Federal-owned structure located in Carlyle, Illinois on the Kaskaskia River.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1966, this concrete dam stands at a height of 68 feet and has a storage capacity of 1,286,900 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, but it also serves other functions such as fish and wildlife habitat, navigation, recreation, and water supply.
Despite being categorized with a high hazard potential, Carlyle Dam significantly reduces the risk of flooding to surrounding communities. However, extreme rainfall or earthquake events could potentially lead to downstream flooding. The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has implemented various risk management measures to mitigate these risks, including regular inspections, maintenance, emergency action planning, and public engagement.
USACE continuously works with local emergency managers, updates emergency action plans, conducts exercises with response teams, and holds public meetings to discuss dam safety and water control. The agency's proactive approach to risk management ensures that Carlyle Dam remains a critical infrastructure asset while safeguarding downstream communities from potential flood threats.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
6570 |
Dam Height |
68 |
River Or Stream |
KASKASKIA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
24580 |
Hydraulic Height |
63 |
Drainage Area |
2717 |
Nid Storage |
1286900 |
Structural Height |
68 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
68 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Dam West - Lake Carlyle
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Eldon Hazlet State Park
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Coles Creek - Lake Carlyle
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Boulder - Lake Carlyle
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