South Side Detention Basin Berm 3 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

The South Side Detention Basin Berm 3 Dam, also known as Berm 3, is a crucial infrastructure located in Coles, Illinois, designed by THE UPCHURCH GROUP, INC.


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Summary

Completed in 2011, this earth dam stands at a height of 13.4 feet and spans a length of 2827 feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving as a protective barrier against potential water overflow from the TRIB KICKAPOO CREEK.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, this dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. While currently in good condition with a 5-year inspection frequency, its emergency action plan was last updated in 2017. The dam has a storage capacity of 97 acre-feet and plays a vital role in safeguarding the city of MATTOON from flooding events.

As a key component of the local flood control system, the South Side Detention Basin Berm 3 Dam exemplifies the importance of water resource management in mitigating climate-related risks. Its strategic location, design characteristics, and regulatory oversight highlight the collaborative efforts to enhance resilience and protect communities from the impacts of extreme weather events.

Year Completed

2011

Dam Length

2827

Dam Height

13.4

River Or Stream

TRIB KICKAPOO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.4

Nid Storage

97

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

13
       
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.