Brophy Pond Dam

NIBBLING BROOK TRIB· Litchfield, Connecticut· Built 1900· Earth· 15 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Brophy Pond Dam is classified as significant hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 15 ft (taller than 58.6% in CT)
Dam Length175 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage54 acre-ft
Normal Storage54 acre-ft
Surface Area12 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Max Discharge10 cfs
Year Completed1900 (126 years old)
NID IDCT00287

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
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEEP

Ownership

Connecticut Rivers Council, BSA

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Brophy Pond Dam?

Brophy 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 Brophy Pond Dam?

Brophy Pond Dam is owned by Connecticut Rivers Council, BSA (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Brophy Pond Dam built?

Brophy Pond Dam was completed in 1900, making it 126 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 Brophy Pond Dam?

Brophy 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 Brophy Pond Dam?

Brophy Pond Dam has a dam height of 15 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.

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.