The Wilmington Dam, located on the Kankakee River in Wilmington, Illinois, was completed in 1920 and serves as a popular recreational spot in the area.
Wind
Humidity
Owned by the local government, this gravity dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a length of 1000 feet, with a storage capacity of 1200 acre-feet. While primarily used for recreation, the dam is also regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.
Despite its low hazard potential, the Wilmington Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level, indicating the need for ongoing risk management measures. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and falls under the jurisdiction of the Chicago District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. With a history of periodic inspections and a designated emergency action plan, the Wilmington Dam is well-prepared to address any potential safety concerns and protect the surrounding community in the event of an emergency.
With its picturesque location on the Kankakee River and its important role in providing recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike, the Wilmington Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate change, the Wilmington Dam offers a fascinating case study in the balance between human recreation, environmental protection, and infrastructure safety in the face of changing weather patterns and potential risks.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
1000 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
KANKAKEE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Nid Storage |
1200 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
Kankakee River Near Wilmington
|
2240cfs |
Mazon River Near Coal City
|
4cfs |
Hickory Creek At Joliet
|
25cfs |
Du Page River At Shorewood
|
196cfs |
Long Run Near Lemont
|
2cfs |
Iroquois River Near Chebanse
|
122cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Desplaines Conservational Park
|
||
Des Plaines State Conservation Area
|
||
Kankakee River State Park
|