Bush Hill Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Located in Oak Brook, Illinois, Bush Hill Dam is a local government-owned structure on TRIB SALT CREEK with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam stands at a height of 9 feet and spans 200 feet in length, providing a surface area of 8 acres and a drainage area of 0.8 square miles. With a controlled spillway type and a width of 10 feet, the dam has a low hazard potential but is subject to regular state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR).

Although the dam's condition assessment is not available, it has a very high risk assessment rating of 1, indicating potential vulnerabilities that may require proactive risk management measures. The last inspection was conducted in July 2019, with a scheduled inspection frequency of 5 years. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's location and associated structures, if any, may pose a risk to the surrounding area in the event of a breach or emergency, highlighting the importance of maintaining effective emergency action plans and communication protocols.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bush Hill Dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of recreation, water management, and risk mitigation. As part of the larger ecosystem along TRIB SALT CREEK, this dam plays a crucial role in balancing water storage and release, highlighting the delicate balance between human infrastructure and natural resources. With its proximity to urban centers and the potential for climate-related impacts, monitoring and maintaining the integrity of Bush Hill Dam remain essential for sustainable water resource management and community safety in the DuPage County area of Illinois.

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

TRIB SALT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Drainage Area

0.8

Nid Storage

50

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled

Hazard Potential

Low

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.