The Arboretum of South Barrington Dam, located in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure along Spring Creek. Owned privately and regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, this earth dam stands at 8 feet high and spans 314 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 88 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 299 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a vital role in mitigating flooding in the surrounding area.

Constructed by Haeger Engineering, the Arboretum of South Barrington Dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 64 feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam undergoes inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and operational effectiveness. While the condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Available," the dam's risk assessment is moderate (3), indicating the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures.

As a key element in the flood risk reduction infrastructure of Cook County, Illinois, the Arboretum of South Barrington Dam showcases the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. With its strategic location and design, this dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding communities and properties from the impacts of extreme weather events, highlighting the essential role of dams in the broader context of water resource and climate adaptation efforts.