Kenmere Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Kenmere Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1898 and is 128 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 | 38 ft (taller than 93.1% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 600 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 594 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 594 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 17 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 734 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1898 (128 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00251 |
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
City of Meriden
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Upper Hart Pond Dam
Hartford, CT
High Hazard 13 ftLower Hart Ponds Dam
Hartford, CT
High Hazard 18 ftHallmere Reservoir Dam
Hartford, CT
High Hazard 45 ftStanley Hart Pond Dam
Hartford, CT
Significant Hazard 4 ftMerimere Reservoir Dam
Hartford, CT
Significant Hazard 33 ftSlopers Pond Dam
Hartford, CT
Significant Hazard 10 ftBeaver Pond Dam
New Haven, CT
Significant Hazard 12 ftWasel Reservoir Dam
Hartford, CT
High Hazard 80 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Kenmere Reservoir Dam?
Kenmere Reservoir 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 Kenmere Reservoir Dam?
Kenmere Reservoir Dam is owned by City of Meriden (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Kenmere Reservoir Dam built?
Kenmere Reservoir Dam was completed in 1898, making it 128 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 Kenmere Reservoir Dam?
Kenmere 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 Kenmere Reservoir Dam?
Kenmere Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 38 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 Kenmere Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Kenmere Reservoir Dam was last inspected on October 11, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.