Forest Lake Dam

BATES BROOK· Fairfield, Connecticut· Built 1930· Masonry· 14 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Forest Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1930 and is 96 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 14 ft (taller than 54.3% in CT)
Dam Length53 ft
Dam TypeMasonry
Max Storage57 acre-ft
Normal Storage57 acre-ft
Surface Area9 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge3 cfs
Year Completed1930 (96 years old)
NID IDCT00351

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

Bruce D. Oberfest, Trustee

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Forest Lake Dam?

Forest Lake 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 Forest Lake Dam?

Forest Lake Dam is owned by Bruce D. Oberfest, Trustee (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Forest Lake Dam built?

Forest Lake Dam was completed in 1930, making it 96 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 Forest Lake Dam?

Forest 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 Forest Lake Dam?

Forest Lake Dam has a dam height of 14 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.