Upper Salt Creek Structure 3 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Upper Salt Creek Structure 3 Dam, also known as St.


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Summary

Michael Reservoir, is a crucial flood risk reduction structure located in Rolling Meadows, Cook County, Illinois. Built in 1985 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and spans a length of 5500 feet. With a storage capacity of 1584 acre-feet, it serves to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events, particularly along the St. Michaels Cemetery Tributary.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, this dam is classified as having a high hazard potential due to its location and purpose. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the condition of the dam is currently marked as "Not Available," emphasizing the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in flood control. With an uncontrolled spillway and no outlet gates, the Upper Salt Creek Structure 3 Dam plays a critical role in safeguarding the community against water-related disasters.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like the Upper Salt Creek Structure 3 Dam is essential in mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events on local communities. By staying informed about the design, function, and regulatory oversight of such dams, we can work towards better water management practices and resilience in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1985

Dam Length

5500

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

ST. MICHAELS CEMETARY TRIB

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

1584

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.