Lake Pocotopaug Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Pocotopaug Dam is classified as significant hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1953 and is 73 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 6 ft (taller than 8.7% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 115 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 512 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 403 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1953 (73 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00362 |
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
Pocotopaug Water Power Company
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Lake Pocotopaug Dam?
Lake Pocotopaug 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 Pocotopaug Dam?
Lake Pocotopaug Dam is owned by Pocotopaug Water Power Company (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Pocotopaug Dam built?
Lake Pocotopaug Dam was completed in 1953, making it 73 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 Pocotopaug Dam?
Lake Pocotopaug 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 Pocotopaug Dam?
Lake Pocotopaug Dam has a dam height of 6 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 Pocotopaug Dam last inspected?
Lake Pocotopaug Dam was last inspected on July 25, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.