Lake Beseck Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Beseck Dam is classified as significant hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1846 and is 180 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 34 ft (taller than 90.8% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 300 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 2.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 116 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,200 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1846 (180 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00381 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Connecticut DEEP
State Government
Nearby Dams
Gunsight Pond Dam
Middlesex, CT
Significant Hazard 17 ftBlack Pond Dam
New Haven, CT
High Hazard 26 ftHigh Hill Pond Aka Shonek Pond Dam
New Haven, CT
Significant Hazard 17 ftCoginchaug River Dam #1
Middlesex, CT
Significant Hazard 12 ftMount Higby Reservoir Dam
Middlesex, CT
High Hazard 30 ftBishops Pond Dam
New Haven, CT
Significant Hazard 13 ftWadsworth Falls Dam #2
Middlesex, CT
Significant Hazard 10 ftAdder Reservoir
Middlesex, CT
High Hazard 28 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Beseck Dam?
Lake Beseck 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 Beseck Dam?
Lake Beseck Dam is owned by Connecticut DEEP (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Beseck Dam built?
Lake Beseck Dam was completed in 1846, making it 180 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 Beseck Dam?
Lake Beseck 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 Beseck Dam?
Lake Beseck Dam has a dam height of 34 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 Beseck Dam last inspected?
Lake Beseck Dam was last inspected on January 20, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.