Buffalo Creek Dam
Key Takeaway
Buffalo Creek Dam is classified as high hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1983 and is 43 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 27 ft (taller than 51.5% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 620 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Max Discharge | 19,684 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1983 (43 years old) |
| NID ID | IL50013 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
METROPOLITAN WATER RECLAMATION DISTRICT
Public Utility
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Significant Hazard 15 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Buffalo Creek Dam?
Buffalo Creek Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Buffalo Creek Dam?
Buffalo Creek Dam is owned by METROPOLITAN WATER RECLAMATION DISTRICT (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Buffalo Creek Dam built?
Buffalo Creek Dam was completed in 1983, making it 43 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Buffalo Creek Dam?
Buffalo Creek Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Buffalo Creek Dam?
Buffalo Creek Dam has a dam height of 27 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Buffalo Creek Dam last inspected?
Buffalo Creek Dam was last inspected on October 15, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.