Lake Sullivan Dam Busseron No. K-1

About Lake Sullivan Dam Busseron No. K-1

The primary purpose of Lake Sullivan Dam Busseron No. K-1 is flood risk reduction. The dam is designed to control downstream flooding by temporarily storing excess water during storms and releasing it at a controlled rate. The dam is owned by Sullivan Co. Park & Recreation Dist. (local government). It impounds the Morrison Creek near Sullivan.

The dam stands 40 feet tall and stretches 1,500 feet across, creates a reservoir covering 460 acres, has a maximum storage capacity of 13,178 acre-feet, and collects water from a drainage area of 11 square miles. Completed in 1968, the structure is well into its service life at over 50 years old.

This dam has a significant hazard potential classification, meaning that a failure could cause significant economic damage — flooding roads, bridges, or property downstream — but is not expected to result in loss of life. Its condition is rated fair — the dam has minor deficiencies that are being addressed or do not pose an immediate safety threat. The most recent inspection on record was 02/28/2018.

At 40 feet, this dam is taller than 87% of dams nationwide.

Search for dams near your address to see all dams in your area with hazard classifications and safety data.