Leesville Dam
Key Takeaway
Leesville Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 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 | 25 ft (taller than 83% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 450 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 138 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 138 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 10 acres |
| Drainage Area | 111 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 10,232 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1900 (126 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00662 |
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
Connecticut DEEP
State Government
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Significant Hazard 14 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Leesville Dam?
Leesville 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 Leesville Dam?
Leesville Dam is owned by Connecticut DEEP (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Leesville Dam built?
Leesville 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 Leesville Dam?
Leesville 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 Leesville Dam?
Leesville Dam has a dam height of 25 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 Leesville Dam last inspected?
Leesville Dam was last inspected on September 29, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.