Silver Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Silver Lake Dam, located in McHenry, Illinois, is a privately owned structure constructed in 1929 with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a length of 170 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 580 acre-feet. Situated on the TRIB FOX RIVER, the dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and integrity.

Although classified as having a low hazard potential, Silver Lake Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level, with a risk assessment rating of 3. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Available," indicating a need for further evaluation. The dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, raising concerns about emergency preparedness and response in the event of a catastrophic failure.

With its picturesque location and historical significance, Silver Lake Dam serves as a vital recreational resource for the surrounding community. However, ongoing monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure the safety of both the dam and the downstream area. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Silver Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in balancing the benefits of water management for recreational purposes with the potential risks associated with aging infrastructure.

Year Completed

1929

Dam Length

170

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

TRIB FOX RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

580

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

23
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.