Kelseytown Reservoir Dam

MENUNKETESUCK RIVER· Middlesex, Connecticut· Built 1895· Earth· 12 ft tall
Significant Hazard Water Supply Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Kelseytown Reservoir Dam is classified as significant hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1895 and is 131 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 Length240 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage180 acre-ft
Normal Storage180 acre-ft
Surface Area15 acres
Drainage Area10 sq mi
Max Discharge1,336 cfs
Year Completed1895 (131 years old)
NID IDCT00389

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
Last Inspection: October 1, 2019
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEEP

Ownership

Connecticut Water Company

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Kelseytown Reservoir Dam?

Kelseytown 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 Kelseytown Reservoir Dam?

Kelseytown Reservoir Dam is owned by Connecticut Water Company (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Kelseytown Reservoir Dam built?

Kelseytown Reservoir Dam was completed in 1895, making it 131 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 Kelseytown Reservoir Dam?

Kelseytown Reservoir 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 Kelseytown Reservoir Dam?

Kelseytown 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.

When was Kelseytown Reservoir Dam last inspected?

Kelseytown Reservoir Dam was last inspected on October 1, 2019. 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.