Chicago Botanical Gardens South Inlet Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Chicago Botanical Gardens South Inlet Dam, located in Glencoe, Illinois, along the Skokie River, serves as a crucial structure for flood risk reduction in the area.


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Summary

Built in 1970 by Bauer Engineering Inc, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and stretches 132 feet in length. With a normal storage capacity of 350 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 825 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a key role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the dam is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its low hazard potential, a very high risk assessment rating underscores the importance of proper maintenance and emergency preparedness for this critical infrastructure. The dam also offers recreational opportunities, making it a valuable asset for both flood control and community enjoyment along the Skokie River.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Chicago Botanical Gardens South Inlet Dam represents a fascinating intersection of engineering, environmental management, and public safety. Its strategic location, design features, and operational purposes highlight the essential role of dams in mitigating flood risks and enhancing water management practices in urban environments. With a focus on sustainability and resilience, this dam serves as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance human development with natural resource conservation in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

132

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

SKOKIE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

51

Drainage Area

0.35

Nid Storage

961

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.