Great Brook Reservoir Dam

GREAT BROOK· New Haven, Connecticut· Built 1925· Earth· 12 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Great Brook Reservoir Dam is classified as significant hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1925 and is 101 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 12 ft (taller than 42.4% in CT)
Dam Length423 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage598 acre-ft
Normal Storage283 acre-ft
Surface Area63 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Max Discharge140 cfs
Year Completed1925 (101 years old)
NID IDCT00641

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: Yes
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEEP

Ownership

City of Waterbury

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Great Brook Reservoir Dam?

Great Brook Reservoir 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 Great Brook Reservoir Dam?

Great Brook Reservoir Dam is owned by City of Waterbury (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Great Brook Reservoir Dam built?

Great Brook Reservoir Dam was completed in 1925, making it 101 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 Great Brook Reservoir Dam?

Great Brook Reservoir 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 Great Brook Reservoir Dam?

Great Brook Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 12 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.