Lower Bolton Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Lower Bolton Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1940 and is 86 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 20 ft (taller than 72.5% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 1,080 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 176 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 8,400 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1940 (86 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00509 |
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
Connecticut DEEP
State Government
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Significant Hazard 15 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lower Bolton Lake Dam?
Lower Bolton Lake 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 Lower Bolton Lake Dam?
Lower Bolton Lake Dam is owned by Connecticut DEEP (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lower Bolton Lake Dam built?
Lower Bolton Lake Dam was completed in 1940, making it 86 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 Lower Bolton Lake Dam?
Lower Bolton Lake 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 Lower Bolton Lake Dam?
Lower Bolton Lake Dam has a dam height of 20 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 Lower Bolton Lake Dam last inspected?
Lower Bolton Lake Dam was last inspected on April 8, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.