Deans Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Deans Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1888 and is 138 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 | 15 ft (taller than 58.6% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 220 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Normal Storage | 90 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 35 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1888 (138 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2003 |
| NID ID | CT00614 |
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
Aquarion Water Company of Connecticut
Public Utility
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Significant Hazard 9 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Deans Reservoir Dam?
Deans Reservoir 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 Deans Reservoir Dam?
Deans Reservoir Dam is owned by Aquarion Water Company of Connecticut (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Deans Reservoir Dam built?
Deans Reservoir Dam was completed in 1888, making it 138 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 Deans Reservoir Dam?
Deans Reservoir 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 Deans Reservoir Dam?
Deans Reservoir 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.
When was Deans Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Deans Reservoir Dam was last inspected on August 6, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.