Upper Salt Creek Structure 4 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Upper Salt Creek Structure 4 Dam, also known as Twin Lakes Reservoir, is a vital infrastructure in Cook County, Illinois, designed to mitigate flood risks along the Salt Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1987 by TORNROSE, CAMPBELLANDASSOC., this earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and spans 3000 feet, providing a storage capacity of 775 acre-feet. The dam serves a primary purpose of flood risk reduction and also supports recreational activities in the area.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Upper Salt Creek Structure 4 Dam poses a high hazard potential but is currently assessed as moderate risk. Despite its critical role in protecting the surrounding community from flooding events, the dam's condition assessment is not available, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity. With a spillway width of 32 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 1300 cubic feet per second, the dam is well-equipped to handle significant water flow during peak periods.

Located in Palatine, Illinois, Upper Salt Creek Structure 4 Dam is a key component of the region's water resource management infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact precipitation patterns and extreme weather events, the dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding communities and ecosystems along the Salt Creek watershed. Its strategic design and operational oversight by the Natural Resources Conservation Service demonstrate a commitment to resilience and preparedness in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1987

Dam Length

3000

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

SALT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

775

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
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.