Middle Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Middle Reservoir Dam is classified as significant hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1890 and is 136 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 35 ft (taller than 91.3% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 290 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 36 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 33 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 3 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 132 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1890 (136 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1996 |
| NID ID | CT00590 |
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
South Central CT RWA
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Peat Swamp Reservoir Dam
New Haven, CT
High Hazard 41 ftClarks Pond Dam
New Haven, CT
Significant Hazard 10 ftQuillinan Reservoir Dam
New Haven, CT
High Hazard 19 ftSochrin Pond Dam
New Haven, CT
Significant Hazard 13 ftKinneytown
New Haven, CT
Significant Hazard 21 ftBladens River Dam
New Haven, CT
Significant Hazard 12 ftRimmon Dam Aka Tingue Dam
New Haven, CT
Significant Hazard 18 ftWire Company Dam #2
New Haven, CT
Significant Hazard 12 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Middle Reservoir Dam?
Middle 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 Middle Reservoir Dam?
Middle Reservoir Dam is owned by South Central CT RWA (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Middle Reservoir Dam built?
Middle Reservoir Dam was completed in 1890, making it 136 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 Middle Reservoir Dam?
Middle 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 Middle Reservoir Dam?
Middle Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 35 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 Middle Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Middle Reservoir Dam was last inspected on November 7, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.