Crystal Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Crystal Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1850 and is 176 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 | 50 ft (taller than 96.1% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 130 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 350 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 154 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 31 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 180 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1850 (176 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1966 |
| NID ID | CT00138 |
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
Connecticut DEEP
State Government
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What is the hazard classification of Crystal Lake Dam?
Crystal 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 Crystal Lake Dam?
Crystal Lake Dam is owned by Connecticut DEEP (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Crystal Lake Dam built?
Crystal Lake Dam was completed in 1850, making it 176 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 Crystal Lake Dam?
Crystal 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 Crystal Lake Dam?
Crystal Lake Dam has a dam height of 50 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 Crystal Lake Dam last inspected?
Crystal Lake Dam was last inspected on October 18, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.