Salem Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lakewood Lake Dam Hecks Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Salem Reservoir Dam, located in Marion, Illinois, along the Town Creek, is a crucial water resource infrastructure owned and operated by the local government for recreation and water supply purposes.
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Summary
This earth dam, standing at 21 feet high and spanning 775 feet in length, was completed in 1912 and offers a storage capacity of 900 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 388 acre-feet. The dam's spillway, with a width of 60 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for a maximum discharge of 3000 cubic feet per second.
While the primary purpose of Salem Reservoir Dam is recreation, its high hazard potential necessitates regular inspection and maintenance. The dam has a moderate risk assessment rating and falls under the regulatory oversight of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently unavailable, and emergency action planning dates back to 1993. With its picturesque setting and significant role in water supply and recreation, Salem Reservoir Dam serves as a vital asset in the region, requiring ongoing monitoring and management to ensure its safety and functionality for the community.
Year Completed |
1912 |
Dam Length |
775 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
TOWN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
78 |
Drainage Area |
3.9 |
Nid Storage |
900 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Salem Reservoir Dam