Lake Chaffee Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Chaffee Dam is classified as significant hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1880 and is 146 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 3 ft (taller than 0.7% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 21 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 412 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 412 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 58 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 220 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1880 (146 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00466 |
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
Ference;Lake Chaffee Improvement Association;Richards
Private
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Significant Hazard 28 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Chaffee Dam?
Lake Chaffee 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 Chaffee Dam?
Lake Chaffee Dam is owned by Ference;Lake Chaffee Improvement Association;Richards (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Chaffee Dam built?
Lake Chaffee Dam was completed in 1880, making it 146 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 Chaffee Dam?
Lake Chaffee 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 Chaffee Dam?
Lake Chaffee Dam has a dam height of 3 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 Chaffee Dam last inspected?
Lake Chaffee Dam was last inspected on July 9, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.