Echo Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Echo Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1958 and is 68 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 | 24 ft (taller than 81.2% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 355 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 75 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 88 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 11 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1958 (68 years old) |
| Year Modified | -1 |
| NID ID | CT00124 |
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 Watertown
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 14 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Echo Lake Dam?
Echo 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 Echo Lake Dam?
Echo Lake Dam is owned by Town of Watertown (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Echo Lake Dam built?
Echo Lake Dam was completed in 1958, making it 68 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 Echo Lake Dam?
Echo 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 Echo Lake Dam?
Echo Lake Dam has a dam height of 24 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 Echo Lake Dam last inspected?
Echo Lake Dam was last inspected on December 17, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.