Columbia Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Columbia Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1865 and is 161 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 | 28 ft (taller than 85.5% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 295 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 4.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 290 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 624 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1865 (161 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00520 |
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 Columbia
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 9 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Columbia Lake Dam?
Columbia Lake 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 Columbia Lake Dam?
Columbia Lake Dam is owned by Town of Columbia (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Columbia Lake Dam built?
Columbia Lake Dam was completed in 1865, making it 161 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 Columbia Lake Dam?
Columbia Lake 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 Columbia Lake Dam?
Columbia Lake Dam has a dam height of 28 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 Columbia Lake Dam last inspected?
Columbia Lake Dam was last inspected on May 16, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.