Lake Basile Dam

MUNNISUNK BROOK· Hartford, Connecticut· Built 1940· Earth· 14 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Lake Basile Dam is classified as significant hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1940 and is 86 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 14 ft (taller than 54.3% in CT)
Dam Length250 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Normal Storage74 acre-ft
Surface Area18 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Max Discharge491 cfs
Year Completed1940 (86 years old)
NID IDCT00274

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: No
Last Inspection: January 20, 2016
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEEP

Ownership

Town of Simsbury

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lake Basile Dam?

Lake Basile 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 Lake Basile Dam?

Lake Basile Dam is owned by Town of Simsbury (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lake Basile Dam built?

Lake Basile Dam was completed in 1940, making it 86 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 Lake Basile Dam?

Lake Basile 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 Lake Basile Dam?

Lake Basile Dam has a dam height of 14 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 Lake Basile Dam last inspected?

Lake Basile Dam was last inspected on January 20, 2016. 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.