Lake Tavolan Dam

SALMON CREEK· Litchfield, Connecticut· Built 1970· Earth· 13 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Lake Tavolan Dam is classified as significant hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1970 and is 56 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 13 ft (taller than 50.2% in CT)
Dam Length840 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage121 acre-ft
Normal Storage121 acre-ft
Surface Area26 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge276 cfs
Year Completed1970 (56 years old)
NID IDCT00597

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEEP

Ownership

Francoline/colebrook Partners

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lake Tavolan Dam?

Lake Tavolan 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 Tavolan Dam?

Lake Tavolan Dam is owned by Francoline/colebrook Partners (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lake Tavolan Dam built?

Lake Tavolan Dam was completed in 1970, making it 56 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 Tavolan Dam?

Lake Tavolan 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 Tavolan Dam?

Lake Tavolan Dam has a dam height of 13 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.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.