Goss Brook Dam
Key Takeaway
Goss Brook Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 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 | 39 ft (taller than 93.6% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 650 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 530 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 340 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 24 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 280 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1963 (63 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00465 |
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
Connecticut Rivers Council, BSA
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Goss Brook Dam?
Goss Brook 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 Goss Brook Dam?
Goss Brook Dam is owned by Connecticut Rivers Council, BSA (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Goss Brook Dam built?
Goss Brook Dam was completed in 1963, making it 63 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 Goss Brook Dam?
Goss Brook 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 Goss Brook Dam?
Goss Brook Dam has a dam height of 39 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 Goss Brook Dam last inspected?
Goss Brook Dam was last inspected on November 3, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.