Maple Lake Dam, located in Lemont, Illinois, is a local government-owned structure that serves a primary purpose of recreation.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1918, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a length of 110 feet, with a storage capacity of 765 acre-feet. Situated on the Trib Des Plaines River, the dam's spillway type is classified as uncontrolled with a width of 15 feet. Despite its age, Maple Lake Dam is regularly inspected by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and is deemed to have a significant hazard potential.
With a drainage area of 0.6 square miles, Maple Lake Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. The dam's location in Cook County, Illinois, makes it a key feature in the local landscape, providing both recreational opportunities and flood control measures. Although the dam's condition assessment is not currently available, its risk assessment is moderate, indicating that preventative measures and risk management strategies are in place to address any potential issues that may arise.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Maple Lake Dam to be a fascinating structure that showcases the intersection of human engineering with natural landscapes. As a significant feature on the Trib Des Plaines River, this dam not only provides recreational benefits to the local community but also plays a vital role in water storage and flood prevention efforts. Its historical significance, coupled with its ongoing regulatory oversight and risk management measures, make Maple Lake Dam a noteworthy site for those interested in the sustainable management of water resources and the impacts of climate change on infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1918 |
Dam Length |
110 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB DES PLAINES RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
60 |
Drainage Area |
0.6 |
Nid Storage |
765 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
25 |