Lake Elise Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Elise Dam is classified as significant hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 Length | 320 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 90 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 90 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 15 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 90 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1900 (126 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00330 |
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
Middlebury Land Trust Inc.
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Lake Elise Dam?
Lake Elise 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 Elise Dam?
Lake Elise Dam is owned by Middlebury Land Trust Inc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Elise Dam built?
Lake Elise Dam was completed in 1900, making it 126 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 Elise Dam?
Lake Elise 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 Elise Dam?
Lake Elise 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.