White Pine Ditch Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

White Pine Ditch Dam, also known as White Pine Ditch Reservoir, is a crucial structure located in Arlington Heights, Cook County, Illinois.


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Summary

Built in 1975 by HATTIS ASSOCIATES INC., this earth dam stands at a height of 13 feet and spans 500 feet in length. The primary purpose of the dam is flood risk reduction along the White Pine Ditch, contributing to the overall safety and protection of the area from potential water-related disasters.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, White Pine Ditch Dam plays a significant role in mitigating flood hazards in the region. With a storage capacity of 5 acre-feet, the dam is designed to handle controlled spillways and other outlet gates for efficient water management. Despite its age, the dam's hazard potential is considered significant, highlighting the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality and safety.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, White Pine Ditch Dam serves as a vital infrastructure piece in the broader network of flood risk reduction measures. Its location, design, and purpose underscore the importance of proactive water management strategies in addressing the challenges posed by changing environmental conditions. As part of ongoing risk assessment and management efforts, the dam remains a critical asset in safeguarding the community against potential inundation events, signaling the importance of sustainable water resource practices in the face of climate uncertainty.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

WHITE PINE DITCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

5

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

13
       
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.