Woodfield Lakes Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Woodfield Lakes Dam, located in Schaumburg, Illinois, along the West Branch Salt Creek, stands as a vital recreational resource for the community.


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Summary

Built in 1977, this Earth-type dam spans 500 feet in length, with a height of 8 feet and a storage capacity of 61 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of recreation, offering a serene escape for residents and visitors alike.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Woodfield Lakes Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its age, the dam has undergone regular inspections, with the last one conducted in October 2018. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 198 feet, ensuring proper water flow and flood control measures for the surrounding area.

With a surface area of 4.5 acres and a drainage area of 2.7 acres, Woodfield Lakes Dam provides a picturesque setting for outdoor activities and wildlife habitat. Its strategic location within Cook County, Illinois, makes it a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the importance of sustainable dam management practices in enhancing community resilience and recreational opportunities.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

WEST BRANCH SALT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.5

Drainage Area

2.7

Nid Storage

61

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
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.