Hawthorn Parkway Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Vernon Hills, Illinois, the Hawthorn Parkway Dam is a crucial structure designed by CBBEL to reduce flood risks in the area.


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Summary

Completed in 2001, this earth dam stands at a height of 9 feet and spans 200 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 910 acre-feet. Situated on the Seavey Drainage Ditch, this dam is under the jurisdiction of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and efficacy in flood risk reduction.

With a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the Hawthorn Parkway Dam plays a significant role in managing water resources in Lake County, Illinois. Despite its critical importance, the condition assessment of the dam is currently not available, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to uphold its structural integrity. As a primary source of flood risk reduction in the region, this dam serves as a key component in the overall water management strategy, safeguarding communities against potential inundation and ensuring the safety of residents and infrastructure in the area.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor and assess the impact of climate change on water infrastructure, the Hawthorn Parkway Dam stands as a testament to the proactive measures taken to mitigate flood risks and protect the surrounding environment. With its controlled spillway and strategic design, this dam exemplifies the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of evolving climate challenges. By prioritizing safety, regulation, and maintenance, the Hawthorn Parkway Dam remains a vital asset in the ongoing efforts to safeguard communities and natural resources from the potential impacts of flooding.

Year Completed

2001

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

SEAVEY DRAINAGE DITCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

910

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

9
       
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.