Eureka Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Eureka Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1878 and is 148 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 | 18 ft (taller than 67.8% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 250 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 250 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 210 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 32 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 29 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1878 (148 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1989 |
| NID ID | CT00077 |
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 Bethel
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Eureka Lake Dam?
Eureka 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 Eureka Lake Dam?
Eureka Lake Dam is owned by Town of Bethel (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Eureka Lake Dam built?
Eureka Lake Dam was completed in 1878, making it 148 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 Eureka Lake Dam?
Eureka Lake 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 Eureka Lake Dam?
Eureka Lake Dam has a dam height of 18 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 Eureka Lake Dam last inspected?
Eureka Lake Dam was last inspected on August 25, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.