Means Brook Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Means Brook Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1917 and is 109 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 47 ft (taller than 95.7% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 500 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 382 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 268 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 18 acres |
| Drainage Area | 8 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 4,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1917 (109 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2015 |
| NID ID | CT00092 |
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
Aquarion Water Company of Connecticut
Public Utility
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High Hazard 25 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Means Brook Reservoir Dam?
Means Brook 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 Means Brook Reservoir Dam?
Means Brook Reservoir Dam is owned by Aquarion Water Company of Connecticut (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Means Brook Reservoir Dam built?
Means Brook 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 Means Brook Reservoir Dam?
Means Brook Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Means Brook Reservoir Dam?
Means Brook Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 47 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 Means Brook Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Means Brook Reservoir Dam was last inspected on August 6, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.