Kemery Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kemery Lake Dam, located in Will County, Illinois, is a federal-owned structure managed by the Corps of Engineers.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1942, this Earth-type dam stands at 20 feet high and spans 200 feet in length, serving primarily as a water supply source. Situated on Prairie Creek, the dam has a storage capacity of 116 acre-feet, with a spillway width of 83 feet.

With a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Kemery Lake Dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not available, and its last inspection was conducted in 2006. While an emergency action plan is not currently prepared, the dam's risk management measures and guidelines are under review.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will be intrigued by Kemery Lake Dam's historical significance and critical role in the local water supply system. The dam's location within the Joliet Army Ammunitions Plant adds to its unique characteristics, highlighting the intersection of infrastructure development and environmental conservation in the region. As efforts to enhance dam safety and resilience continue, Kemery Lake Dam remains a focal point for ongoing monitoring and risk management strategies.

Year Completed

1942

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

PRAIRIE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

116

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
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.