Upper Sterling is a gravity dam located on Rock Creek in Rock Falls, Illinois. Built in 1907 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the dam serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction and hydroelectric power generation. With a height of 9.5 feet and a length of 1170 feet, Upper Sterling has a storage capacity of 7000 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 23,000 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Upper Sterling is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has a low hazard potential and is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and seven other controlled outlet gates. Its location in Whiteside County, Illinois, makes it a key asset for water resource management in the region, providing both flood protection and clean energy production.

Despite its age, Upper Sterling remains a vital infrastructure component in the area, with a moderate risk assessment rating. Its historic significance, combined with its continued functionality and regulatory oversight, underscores its importance in the water resource and climate management landscape. For enthusiasts interested in the intersection of water resources, climate resilience, and hydroelectric power, Upper Sterling stands out as a prime example of sustainable infrastructure development and management.