Jennings Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Jennings Pond Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1870 and is 156 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 | 22 ft (taller than 78.5% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 115 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 96 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 95 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 7 acres |
| Drainage Area | 8 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 515 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1870 (156 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00396 |
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
Town of Chester
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Significant Hazard 13 ftOld Mill Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 6 ftDrop Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 22 ftPratt Read Dam
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Significant Hazard 11 ftWaterhouse Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 4 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Jennings Pond Dam?
Jennings Pond 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 Jennings Pond Dam?
Jennings Pond Dam is owned by Town of Chester (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Jennings Pond Dam built?
Jennings Pond Dam was completed in 1870, making it 156 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 Jennings Pond Dam?
Jennings Pond 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 Jennings Pond Dam?
Jennings Pond Dam has a dam height of 22 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 Jennings Pond Dam last inspected?
Jennings Pond Dam was last inspected on November 4, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.