North Aurora Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The North Aurora Dam, located on the Fox River in Illinois, is a gravity dam completed in 1974 with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Designed by BACKMAN & FUNK, this structure stands at a height of 6 feet and spans 375 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 159 acre-feet, the dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and effectiveness in managing floodwaters.

The dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled and 375 feet wide, helps regulate water flow during periods of high discharge. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in a condition that is not available for public disclosure. While emergency action plans and risk assessments are moderate, the structure has not been assigned a Dam Safety Action Classification (DSAC) date. As a local government-owned asset, the North Aurora Dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding community from potential flooding events, highlighting its importance as a key water resource infrastructure in the region.

With its strategic location on the Fox River and its critical role in flood risk reduction, the North Aurora Dam serves as a vital component of water resource management in Kane County, Illinois. Its design, construction, and ongoing maintenance demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding the community against the impacts of extreme weather events and ensuring the efficient operation of this essential infrastructure. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like the North Aurora Dam can provide valuable insights into the intersection of environmental conservation, infrastructure development, and disaster preparedness in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

375

Dam Height

6

River Or Stream

FOX RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Nid Storage

159

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

6
       
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.