Gardner Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Gardner Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 10 ft (taller than 29.6% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 168 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 3.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 521 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 235 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1900 (126 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00512 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Connecticut DEEP
State Government
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Significant Hazard 20 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Gardner Lake Dam?
Gardner 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 Gardner Lake Dam?
Gardner Lake Dam is owned by Connecticut DEEP (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Gardner Lake Dam built?
Gardner Lake Dam was completed in 1900, making it 126 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 Gardner Lake Dam?
Gardner 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 Gardner Lake Dam?
Gardner Lake Dam has a dam height of 10 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 Gardner Lake Dam last inspected?
Gardner Lake Dam was last inspected on May 13, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.