Galvins Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Galvins Lake Dam, located in Cook County, Illinois, serves as a vital recreational resource in the area.


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Summary

Built in 1938, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and spans 225 feet in length. With a normal storage capacity of 54 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 120 acre-feet, the dam provides essential water storage for the surrounding community.

Managed by a private owner, Galvins Lake Dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam is currently rated as being in moderate risk condition. The dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled and 32 feet wide, helps manage water flow during periods of high discharge. Additionally, the dam's primary purpose of recreation highlights its importance in providing outdoor activities for residents and visitors alike.

Overall, Galvins Lake Dam stands as a crucial structure for water management and recreational purposes in the Carpentersville-Offstream area. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance efforts, this dam continues to play a key role in supporting the local community's water resource needs while also offering opportunities for leisure and enjoyment.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

225

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

TRIB SPRING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

120

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.