T.J. O'Brien Lock and Dam facts for kids
Quick facts for kids T. J. OBrien Lock and Dam |
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The T. J. O'Brien Lock and Dam
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| Location | Hegewisch, Chicago |
| Opening date | 1960 |
| Construction cost | $6,954,700 |
| Operator(s) |  United States Army Corps of Engineers Rock Island District |
| Dam and spillways | |
| Type of dam | 4 slide gate sections |
| Impounds | Calumet River to Lake Michigan harbor |
| Length | 297 feet (91 m) |
| Reservoir | |
| Normal elevation | 577 feet (176 m) above sea level |
The Thomas J. O'Brien Lock & Dam is an important structure on the Calumet River. This river is located on the south side of Chicago. A lock and dam system helps boats move between different water levels. It also helps control the flow of water.
This dam is part of a larger waterway system. The Calumet River connects to the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal. This canal then flows into the Des Plaines River. From there, the water goes into the Illinois River. Finally, it reaches the mighty Mississippi River. This whole journey helps connect Chicago to the rest of the country by water.
Contents
What is a Lock and Dam?
A lock and dam system is like a water elevator for boats. A dam is a barrier built across a river. It holds back water to create a higher water level on one side. A lock is a chamber with gates at both ends. It allows boats to move from one water level to another.
How the Lock Works
Imagine a boat wants to go from the lower river to the higher river. The boat enters the lock chamber. Both gates are then closed. Water is either added to or removed from the chamber. This changes the water level inside. Once the water level matches the new side, the other gate opens. The boat can then continue its journey.
Key Facts About the O'Brien Lock and Dam
The T. J. O'Brien Lock & Dam plays a big role in managing water. It also helps ships travel safely. The dam is about 326 river miles (525 km) from where the Mississippi and Illinois rivers meet. This meeting point is called a confluence.
Water Levels and Dimensions
The water level on the upstream side of the dam is the same as Lake Michigan. This is about 577 feet (176 m) above sea level. Sea level is the average height of the ocean's surface. The lock itself is very large. It measures 1,000 by 110 feet (305 m × 34 m). This means it is long enough for many large boats.
When It Was Built
The T. J. O'Brien Lock & Dam was opened in 1960. It cost about $6,954,700 to build. This was a significant investment. It helped improve shipping and water control in the area.
Who Operates It
The dam is operated by the United States Army Corps of Engineers. They are a group that manages many of the country's waterways. Their job is to keep rivers safe for boats. They also help control floods.
