Merimere Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Merimere Reservoir Dam is classified as significant hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1870 and is 156 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 33 ft (taller than 90.4% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 900 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 59 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 475 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1870 (156 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1988 |
| NID ID | CT00252 |
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
City of Meriden
Local Government
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High Hazard 25 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Merimere Reservoir Dam?
Merimere Reservoir 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 Merimere Reservoir Dam?
Merimere Reservoir Dam is owned by City of Meriden (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Merimere Reservoir Dam built?
Merimere Reservoir Dam was completed in 1870, making it 156 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 Merimere Reservoir Dam?
Merimere 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 Merimere Reservoir Dam?
Merimere Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 33 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 Merimere Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Merimere Reservoir Dam was last inspected on October 11, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.