Hartford Reservoir #1 Dam
Key Takeaway
Hartford Reservoir #1 Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1868 and is 158 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 46 ft (taller than 95.5% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 745 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 665 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 421 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 28 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 6,130 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1868 (158 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00001 |
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
Metropolitan District Commission
Public Utility
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High Hazard 32 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Hartford Reservoir #1 Dam?
Hartford Reservoir #1 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 Hartford Reservoir #1 Dam?
Hartford Reservoir #1 Dam is owned by Metropolitan District Commission (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Hartford Reservoir #1 Dam built?
Hartford Reservoir #1 Dam was completed in 1868, making it 158 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 Hartford Reservoir #1 Dam?
Hartford Reservoir #1 Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Hartford Reservoir #1 Dam?
Hartford Reservoir #1 Dam has a dam height of 46 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 Hartford Reservoir #1 Dam last inspected?
Hartford Reservoir #1 Dam was last inspected on July 19, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.