Hale Dam

WHETSTONE BROOK· Windham, Connecticut· Built 1900· Masonry· 18 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Hale 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 18 ft (taller than 67.8% in CT)
Dam Length250 ft
Dam TypeMasonry
Max Storage54 acre-ft
Normal Storage54 acre-ft
Surface Area3 acres
Drainage Area7 sq mi
Max Discharge510 cfs
Year Completed1900 (126 years old)
NID IDCT00167

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
Last Inspection: December 2, 1994
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEEP

Ownership

George Cook & Burt Door, Jr.

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Hale Dam?

Hale 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 Hale Dam?

Hale Dam is owned by George Cook & Burt Door, Jr. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Hale Dam built?

Hale 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 Hale Dam?

Hale 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 Hale Dam?

Hale Dam has a dam height of 18 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 Hale Dam last inspected?

Hale Dam was last inspected on December 2, 1994. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

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.