South Lake Dam, located in Huntley-Offstream, Illinois, is a privately-owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1965 by designer E. C. Bowen, Jr., this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and stretches 500 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 119 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, South Lake Dam is considered a relatively safe structure. Its spillway, of uncontrolled type with a width of 30 feet, helps manage water flow in the event of excess storage. Although the condition assessment is not available, regular inspections are conducted every five years to monitor the dam's integrity. Despite its private ownership, the dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities and water resource management in the McHenry County area.
South Lake Dam is not only a recreational spot but also a vital piece of infrastructure in the South Branch Kishwaukee River watershed. With its historical significance dating back to the 1960s, this earthen dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns. As climate enthusiasts, understanding and advocating for the safety and maintenance of structures like South Lake Dam is essential for ensuring the resilience of our water systems in the future.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB SOUTH BRANCH KISHWAUKEE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
119 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
Fox River At Algonquin (Tailwater)
|
644cfs |
Fox River At Algonquin
|
725cfs |
Boone Creek Near Mc Henry
|
10cfs |
Tyler Creek At Elgin
|
8cfs |
Nippersink Creek Above Wonder Lake
|
25cfs |
Poplar Creek At Elgin
|
7cfs |