Big Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Big Pond Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1870 and is 156 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 20 ft (taller than 72.5% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 530 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 300 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 165 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 32 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 510 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1870 (156 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00194 |
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
Big Pond Preservation Association
Private
Nearby Dams
Spencer Pond Dam
New London, CT
Significant Hazard 12 ftPotash Pond Dam
Windham, CT
Significant Hazard 21 ftIndian Hollow Pond Dam
Windham, CT
Low Hazard 9 ftFrog Pond Dam
Windham, CT
Significant Hazard 10 ftGager'S Pond Dam
New London, CT
Significant Hazard 22 ftLake Marie Dam
Windham, CT
Significant Hazard 9 ftRobinson Pond Dam
Windham, CT
Significant Hazard 14 ftScotland
Windham, CT
Low Hazard 37 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Big Pond Dam?
Big Pond 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 Big Pond Dam?
Big Pond Dam is owned by Big Pond Preservation Association (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Big Pond Dam built?
Big Pond Dam was completed in 1870, making it 156 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 Big Pond Dam?
Big 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 Big Pond Dam?
Big Pond Dam has a dam height of 20 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 Big Pond Dam last inspected?
Big Pond Dam was last inspected on June 26, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.