Olmsted Locks And Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Pulaski, Illinois, the Olmsted Locks and Dam is a federal structure designed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.


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Summary

Completed in 2018, this concrete dam serves the primary purpose of navigation on the Ohio River, featuring a multi-arch core design with a height of 67 feet and a length of 3575 feet. The dam includes two locks, each 1200 feet long and 110 feet wide, facilitating the movement of vessels through the waterway.

With a significant hazard potential and a very high risk assessment, the US Army Corps of Engineers actively manages flood risks associated with the dam. This includes continuous monitoring of dam conditions, prioritizing risk reduction activities, and collaborating with local emergency managers to develop response plans. The emergency action plan for the dam is regularly updated, and maintenance and repairs are conducted as needed to ensure the structure's integrity. Despite the risks, the Olmsted Locks and Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and navigation on the Ohio River, showcasing the importance of sustainable infrastructure development in the face of climate challenges.

Year Completed

2018

Dam Length

3575

Dam Height

49

River Or Stream

OHIO

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

19000

Length Of Locks

1200

Hydraulic Height

37

Drainage Area

203000

Nid Storage

728000

Structural Height

67

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 0, Tainter (radial) - 0

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

67
       
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.