Mirror Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Mirror Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1949 and is 77 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 | 500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 66 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 66 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 8 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 315 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1949 (77 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2003 |
| NID ID | CT01049 |
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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Significant Hazard 12 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Mirror Lake Dam?
Mirror 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 Mirror Lake Dam?
Mirror Lake Dam is owned by City of Meriden (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Mirror Lake Dam built?
Mirror Lake Dam was completed in 1949, making it 77 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 Mirror Lake Dam?
Mirror 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 Mirror Lake Dam?
Mirror 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 Mirror Lake Dam last inspected?
Mirror Lake Dam was last inspected on March 26, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.