Papoose Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Papoose Lake Dam, located in Palos Park, Illinois, serves as a vital recreational hub in Cook County.


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Summary

Completed in 1956, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 12 feet and stretches over 750 feet along Trib Mill Creek. With a storage capacity of 143 acre-feet, the dam primarily caters to recreational purposes, offering a serene escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking outdoor activities.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Papoose Lake Dam is inspected every three years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's spillway, with a width of 18 feet, is uncontrolled, presenting a significant hazard potential that requires careful monitoring. While the condition assessment is currently not available, the dam's risk assessment is rated as moderate, highlighting the need for ongoing risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding community and environment.

As a popular destination for water-based activities, Papoose Lake Dam plays a crucial role in enhancing the recreational experience for residents and visitors alike. With its picturesque location and historical significance, this dam stands as a testament to Illinois' commitment to preserving its water resources while balancing the need for sustainable development in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

750

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TRIB MILL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

143

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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.