Buffalo Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Buffalo Creek Dam, also known as Buffalo Creek Retention Reservoir, is a crucial water management structure located in Long Grove, Illinois.


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Summary

Owned by a public utility, the dam serves as a flood risk reduction measure along the Buffalo Creek. Designed by MWRDGC and completed in 1983, the earth dam stands at 27 feet tall and spans a length of 620 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 1,695 acre-feet.

The dam, regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, has a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. It features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 204 feet and is regularly inspected to ensure its structural integrity. While the dam does not currently have normal storage capacity, it plays a vital role in mitigating flood risks in the area, protecting the surrounding communities from potential water-related disasters.

With its strategic location and design, Buffalo Creek Dam stands as a critical infrastructure for water resource and climate management enthusiasts. As one of the key flood risk reduction structures in Lake County, Illinois, the dam exemplifies the importance of proactive water management practices in safeguarding communities against natural disasters and ensuring sustainable water resource utilization in the region.

Year Completed

1983

Dam Length

620

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

BUFFALO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

1695

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

27
       
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.