Hancock Brook Dam
Key Takeaway
Hancock Brook Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1966 and is 60 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 35 ft (taller than 91.3% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 2,300 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 8.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 130 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 40 acres |
| Drainage Area | 12 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 16,600 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1966 (60 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00507 |
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
USACE - New England District
Federal Government
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High Hazard 37 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Hancock Brook Dam?
Hancock 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 Hancock Brook Dam?
Hancock Brook Dam is owned by USACE - New England District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Hancock Brook Dam built?
Hancock Brook Dam was completed in 1966, making it 60 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 Hancock Brook Dam?
Hancock Brook Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Hancock Brook Dam?
Hancock Brook Dam has a dam height of 35 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 Hancock Brook Dam last inspected?
Hancock Brook Dam was last inspected on October 28, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.