Steel Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sears Moline Power
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Steel is a significant hydroelectric structure located in Rock Island, Illinois, owned by the State of Illinois Department of Transportation.
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Summary
Constructed in 1912, this gravity dam stands at 6 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 11 feet. The primary purpose of the dam is for hydroelectric power generation, with additional benefits for recreation. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 410 acre-feet and a drainage area of 11,000 acres.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Steel has a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment. It has undergone inspection and enforcement by the State of Illinois Department of Natural Resources, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulatory standards. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 775 feet, contributing to its efficient water management capabilities. With its historical significance and continued operational relevance, Steel serves as a vital asset for water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in the region.
Overall, Steel exemplifies the intersection of infrastructure development and environmental stewardship, showcasing the importance of sustainable water resource management practices. As a key player in the hydroelectric sector, Steel plays a crucial role in the local economy and ecosystem, providing clean energy and recreational opportunities while minimizing environmental impact. With proper regulatory oversight and maintenance, Steel stands as a testament to the ongoing commitment to balancing water resource utilization with conservation efforts in the face of climate change challenges.
Year Completed |
1912 |
Dam Length |
775 |
Dam Height |
6 |
River Or Stream |
Rock Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
570 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
11000 |
Nid Storage |
670 |
Structural Height |
9 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Steel
Big Island Parkway Rock Island