Lower Scoville Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Lower Scoville Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1917 and is 109 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 | 15 ft (taller than 58.6% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 600 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 50 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 31 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 5 acres |
| Drainage Area | 9 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,520 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1917 (109 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00293 |
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
Town of Wolcott
Local Government
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High Hazard 38 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lower Scoville Reservoir Dam?
Lower Scoville Reservoir 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 Lower Scoville Reservoir Dam?
Lower Scoville Reservoir Dam is owned by Town of Wolcott (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lower Scoville Reservoir Dam built?
Lower Scoville Reservoir Dam was completed in 1917, making it 109 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 Scoville Reservoir Dam?
Lower Scoville Reservoir 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 Scoville Reservoir Dam?
Lower Scoville Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 15 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 Scoville Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Lower Scoville Reservoir Dam was last inspected on December 16, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.