Cortland Water Reclamation Facility Cell 4 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Cortland Water Reclamation Facility Cell 4 Dam, located in DeKalb, Illinois, serves a primary purpose of irrigation and was completed in 2008 by SHEAFFER INTERNATIONAL, L.L.C.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 17 feet and has a length of 3250 feet, providing a storage capacity of 336 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to maintain its structural integrity.

Despite having a high hazard potential, the Cortland Dam has a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and is designed with a buttress core and a soil foundation. The dam's condition assessment is currently listed as not available, emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety and efficiency of the irrigation system it supports.

Owned by the local government and situated in a strategic location for water resource management, the Cortland Water Reclamation Facility Cell 4 Dam represents a vital infrastructure for the community. With its completion in 2008 and continued state regulation, the dam plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural irrigation needs in the region.

Year Completed

2008

Dam Length

3250

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

NONE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

336

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

17
       
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.