Long Pond Dam

WHITFORD BROOK· New London, Connecticut· Built 1880· Earth· 6 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Long Pond Dam is classified as significant hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1880 and is 146 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 Length200 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Normal Storage297 acre-ft
Surface Area99 acres
Drainage Area5 sq mi
Max Discharge519 cfs
Year Completed1880 (146 years old)
NID IDCT00527

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
Last Inspection: May 9, 1984
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEEP

Ownership

Lantern Hill Valley Association

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Long Pond Dam?

Long Pond 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 Long Pond Dam?

Long Pond Dam is owned by Lantern Hill Valley Association (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Long Pond Dam built?

Long Pond Dam was completed in 1880, making it 146 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 Long Pond Dam?

Long Pond 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 Long Pond Dam?

Long Pond 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 Long Pond Dam last inspected?

Long Pond Dam was last inspected on May 9, 1984. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

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.