Fountain Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Fountain Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1888 and is 138 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 | 15 ft (taller than 58.6% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 300 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 72 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 63 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 6 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 138 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1888 (138 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00025 |
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 Ansonia
Local Government
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High Hazard 41 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Fountain Lake Dam?
Fountain 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 Fountain Lake Dam?
Fountain Lake Dam is owned by City of Ansonia (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Fountain Lake Dam built?
Fountain Lake Dam was completed in 1888, making it 138 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 Fountain Lake Dam?
Fountain 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 Fountain Lake Dam?
Fountain Lake Dam has a dam height of 15 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 Fountain Lake Dam last inspected?
Fountain Lake Dam was last inspected on May 21, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.