Sauk Trail Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Frankfort, Illinois, the Sauk Trail Dam stands as a crucial structure in the management of flood risk along the Trib Hickory Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 1980 by the Department of Water Resources (DOWR), this earth dam measures 34 feet in height and spans 1160 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 3230 acre-feet. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 510 feet and a slide gate for water release.

With a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, the Sauk Trail Dam is closely regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), undergoing regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. Despite a lack of available condition assessment data, the dam plays a critical role in flood risk reduction for the surrounding area, especially during times of heavy rainfall and increased water flow. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Sauk Trail Dam serves as a noteworthy example of infrastructure designed to mitigate the impact of extreme weather events on local communities.

Year Completed

1980

Dam Length

1160

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

TRIB HICKORY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

3230

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

34
       
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.