Wetfoot Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wetfoot Lake Dam, located in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, is a vital structure for supporting fish and wildlife in the area.


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Summary

Managed by the local government and designed by HDR Engineering, this earth dam stands at a height of 13 feet and spans 250 feet in length. Although it has a low hazard potential, the dam is regulated and inspected by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to ensure its structural integrity and overall safety.

The primary purpose of Wetfoot Lake Dam is to create a fish and wildlife pond, providing a habitat for various species in the East Branch Poplar Creek. With a storage capacity of 633 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the surrounding area. While the spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 25 feet, the dam is equipped with outlet gates to manage water levels effectively.

Despite its moderate risk assessment, Wetfoot Lake Dam has not had a recent condition assessment available. However, with a regular inspection frequency of 5 years and a designated emergency action plan, the dam is well-prepared for any unforeseen events. As an essential part of the local ecosystem, this dam serves as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

EAST BRANCH POPLAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

2.6

Nid Storage

633

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.