Ford Pond Dam

MILL BROOK TRIB· Litchfield, Connecticut· Built 1880· Earth· 11 ft tall
Significant Hazard Fish And Wildlife Pond Private

Key Takeaway

Ford Pond Dam is classified as significant hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1880 and is 146 years old. Its primary use is fish and wildlife pond. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 11 ft (taller than 37.9% in CT)
Dam Length400 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage122 acre-ft
Normal Storage122 acre-ft
Surface Area17 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Max Discharge40 cfs
Year Completed1880 (146 years old)
NID IDCT00606

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEEP

Ownership

Northeast Audubon Society of Sharon Inc.

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Ford Pond Dam?

Ford Pond Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Ford Pond Dam?

Ford Pond Dam is owned by Northeast Audubon Society of Sharon Inc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Ford Pond Dam built?

Ford Pond Dam was completed in 1880, making it 146 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 Ford Pond Dam?

Ford Pond Dam serves the following purposes: Fish And Wildlife Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Ford Pond Dam?

Ford Pond Dam has a dam height of 11 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.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.