Upper Salt Creek Structure 2 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Upper Salt Creek Structure 2 Dam, also known as Plum Grove Reservoir, is a vital piece of infrastructure located in Palatine, Cook County, Illinois.
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Summary
Constructed in 1984 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and spans a length of 2400 feet. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 985 acre-feet and serves to protect the surrounding area from potential inundation during periods of heavy rainfall.
Managed by the local government, the Upper Salt Creek Structure 2 Dam is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's spillway, with a width of 214 feet, helps to control overflow during high flow events, with a maximum discharge capacity of 9582 cubic feet per second. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is rated as having a moderate risk level (3) and currently lacks detailed risk management measures. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience can appreciate the crucial role that this dam plays in protecting the community and managing flood risks in the region.
As a significant piece of infrastructure in the region, the Upper Salt Creek Structure 2 Dam serves as a key component in the overall flood risk reduction strategy for Palatine and its surrounding areas. With its earth dam construction and buttress core design, the dam has been designed to withstand the hydraulic pressures of the tributary Salt Creek. The dam's normal storage capacity of 40 acre-feet helps to regulate water levels and reduce the potential for downstream flooding, showcasing the importance of sustainable water management practices in mitigating climate-related risks. Climate enthusiasts and water resource professionals can find inspiration in the collaborative efforts between local government agencies and the Natural Resources Conservation Service in ensuring the safety and resilience of this essential infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1984 |
Dam Length |
2400 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB SALT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
152 |
Drainage Area |
1.9 |
Nid Storage |
985 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
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