East Lake Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
East Lake Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1855 and is 171 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 | 47 ft (taller than 95.7% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 660 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 993 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 75 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,400 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1855 (171 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00066 |
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
City of Danbury
Local Government
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High Hazard 20 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of East Lake Reservoir Dam?
East Lake 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 East Lake Reservoir Dam?
East Lake Reservoir Dam is owned by City of Danbury (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was East Lake Reservoir Dam built?
East Lake Reservoir Dam was completed in 1855, making it 171 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 East Lake Reservoir Dam?
East Lake 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 East Lake Reservoir Dam?
East Lake Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 47 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 East Lake Reservoir Dam last inspected?
East Lake Reservoir Dam was last inspected on October 22, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.