Chestnut Ridge Dam
Key Takeaway
Chestnut Ridge Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1910 and is 116 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 29 ft (taller than 86.8% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 260 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 290 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 193 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 30 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 270 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1910 (116 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00075 |
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
Town of Bethel
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 12 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Chestnut Ridge Dam?
Chestnut Ridge 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 Chestnut Ridge Dam?
Chestnut Ridge Dam is owned by Town of Bethel (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Chestnut Ridge Dam built?
Chestnut Ridge Dam was completed in 1910, making it 116 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 Chestnut Ridge Dam?
Chestnut Ridge 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 Chestnut Ridge Dam?
Chestnut Ridge Dam has a dam height of 29 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 Chestnut Ridge Dam last inspected?
Chestnut Ridge Dam was last inspected on August 25, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.