Spring Brook Gabion Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Normantown, Illinois, the Spring Brook Gabion Dam, also known as the Spring Brook Retention Basin, was completed in 1984 by LINDLEY & SONS.


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Summary

This local government-owned structure serves as a crucial flood risk reduction measure along the Spring Brook River. The dam stands at a height of 9 feet and spans 400 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 89 acre-feet.

With its primary purpose being flood risk reduction, the Spring Brook Gabion Dam also offers recreational opportunities for the community. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam is state-regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures. The structure features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 8 feet, and although no outlet gates are present, the dam effectively manages a maximum discharge of 1047 cubic feet per second.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the strategic design and functionality of the Spring Brook Gabion Dam in mitigating flood risks along the Spring Brook River. As a vital infrastructure in DuPage County, Illinois, this dam showcases the importance of proactive measures in water management and disaster prevention. The collaborative efforts of local government agencies and regulatory bodies ensure the safety and efficiency of this essential structure, contributing to the overall resilience of the surrounding community.

Year Completed

1984

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

SPRING BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

3

Nid Storage

89

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

9
       
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.