Sauk Trail Dam
Key Takeaway
Sauk Trail Dam is classified as high hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1980 and is 46 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 | 34 ft (taller than 73.9% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 1,160 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 3.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Max Discharge | 25,932 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1980 (46 years old) |
| NID ID | IL01237 |
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
FOREST PRESERVE DISTRICT OF WILL COUNTY
Local Government
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Low Hazard 20 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sauk Trail Dam?
Sauk Trail 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 Sauk Trail Dam?
Sauk Trail Dam is owned by FOREST PRESERVE DISTRICT OF WILL COUNTY (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sauk Trail Dam built?
Sauk Trail Dam was completed in 1980, making it 46 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 Sauk Trail Dam?
Sauk Trail 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 Sauk Trail Dam?
Sauk Trail Dam has a dam height of 34 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 Sauk Trail Dam last inspected?
Sauk Trail Dam was last inspected on October 19, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.