Willow Higgins Reservoir Dam

WILLOW HIGGINS CREEK· Cook, Illinois· Earth· 12 ft tall
Significant Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Local Government

Key Takeaway

Willow Higgins Reservoir Dam is classified as significant hazard in Illinois. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 12 ft (taller than 10% in IL)
Dam Length200 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage32 acre-ft
Normal Storage0 acre-ft
NID IDIL55035

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: November 19, 2019
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: IDNR

Ownership

CITY OF CHICAGO

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Willow Higgins Reservoir Dam?

Willow Higgins Reservoir Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Willow Higgins Reservoir Dam?

Willow Higgins Reservoir Dam is owned by CITY OF CHICAGO (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Willow Higgins Reservoir Dam?

Willow Higgins Reservoir 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 Willow Higgins Reservoir Dam?

Willow Higgins Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 12 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 Willow Higgins Reservoir Dam last inspected?

Willow Higgins Reservoir Dam was last inspected on November 19, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.