Barnes Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Barnes Reservoir Dam is classified as significant hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1902 and is 124 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 22 ft (taller than 78.5% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 1,080 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 757 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 522 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 47 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,264 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1902 (124 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2011 |
| NID ID | CT00236 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
City of New London
Local Government
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High Hazard 23 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Barnes Reservoir Dam?
Barnes 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 Barnes Reservoir Dam?
Barnes Reservoir Dam is owned by City of New London (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Barnes Reservoir Dam built?
Barnes Reservoir Dam was completed in 1902, making it 124 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 Barnes Reservoir Dam?
Barnes Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Barnes Reservoir Dam?
Barnes Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 22 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 Barnes Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Barnes Reservoir Dam was last inspected on October 3, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.