Visitor Center Dam, situated in Williamson County, Illinois, serves as a vital structure for managing water resources and promoting wildlife conservation in the region.
Wind
Humidity
Owned and regulated by the Fish and Wildlife Service, this earth dam was completed in 2009 for the primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond. With a design by BASEPOINT, the dam stands at a height of 21 feet and spans a length of 1065 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 380 acre-feet.
The dam's hydraulic and structural components were last modified in 2009, ensuring its continued functionality and safety. With a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Visitor Center Dam is well-equipped to handle its maximum discharge of 160 cubic feet per second. The controlled spillway, outlet gates, and rock and soil foundations further enhance the dam's resilience, making it a crucial asset for water management and wildlife preservation efforts in the area.
Despite its low hazard potential, the risk assessment for Visitor Center Dam indicates a very high risk level, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures. The dam's association with the Crab Orchard Lake-TR watershed underscores its significance in the local ecosystem. As a hub for recreational activities and a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, Visitor Center Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and conservation efforts in Illinois.
Years Modified |
2009 - Hydraulic, 2009 - Structural |
Year Completed |
2009 |
Dam Length |
1065 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
CRAB ORCHARD LAKE-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
35.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
0.74 |
Nid Storage |
380 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled, Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |