Benedict Pond Dam

DOOLITTLE LAKE BROOK TR· Litchfield, Connecticut· Built 1920· Earth· 8 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Benedict Pond Dam is classified as significant hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 8 ft (taller than 17.6% in CT)
Dam Length225 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Surface Area225 acres
Drainage Area2 sq mi
Max Discharge111 cfs
Year Completed1920 (106 years old)
NID IDCT00448

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: No
Last Inspection: May 1, 2015
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEEP

Ownership

Doolittle Lake Co.

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Benedict Pond Dam?

Benedict Pond 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 Benedict Pond Dam?

Benedict Pond Dam is owned by Doolittle Lake Co. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Benedict Pond Dam built?

Benedict Pond Dam was completed in 1920, making it 106 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 Benedict Pond Dam?

Benedict Pond Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Benedict Pond Dam?

Benedict Pond Dam has a dam height of 8 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 Benedict Pond Dam last inspected?

Benedict Pond Dam was last inspected on May 1, 2015. 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.