Joliet Junior College Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Joliet, Illinois, the Joliet Junior College Lake Dam stands as a vital structure along the TRIB ROCK RUN CREEK, serving its primary purpose of recreation since its completion in 1980.


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Summary

Designed by BELING ENGINEERING CONSULTANTS, this earth dam boasts a height of 11 feet and a length of 345 feet, providing a serene 8-acre surface area for water enthusiasts to enjoy. With a maximum storage capacity of 59 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.7 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the Joliet Junior College Lake Dam is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a spillway width of 28 feet and a significant hazard potential, this dam is equipped to handle a maximum discharge of 952 cubic feet per second, safeguarding the surrounding area from potential flooding risks. Despite its moderate risk assessment level, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures remain undisclosed, leaving room for further evaluation and enhancement of its safety protocols.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Joliet Junior College Lake Dam presents a fascinating case study in dam management and recreational water usage. As a key feature in the local landscape, this dam serves not only as a source of leisure and relaxation but also as a critical component of the region's water infrastructure. With its unique design and strategic location, the Joliet Junior College Lake Dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of human engineering and natural resource management, highlighting the importance of sustainable water practices in today's changing climate.

Year Completed

1980

Dam Length

345

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

TRIB ROCK RUN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Drainage Area

0.7

Nid Storage

59

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

11
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.