Lake Forest Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Forest Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1899 and is 127 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 28 ft (taller than 85.5% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 1,650 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 908 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 852 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 71 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 560 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1899 (127 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00078 |
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
Lake Forest Association;Rachel Sedgewick
Private
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Significant Hazard 12 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Forest Dam?
Lake Forest 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 Lake Forest Dam?
Lake Forest Dam is owned by Lake Forest Association;Rachel Sedgewick (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Forest Dam built?
Lake Forest Dam was completed in 1899, making it 127 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 Forest Dam?
Lake Forest 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 Forest Dam?
Lake Forest Dam has a dam height of 28 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 Forest Dam last inspected?
Lake Forest Dam was last inspected on November 18, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.