Moodus Reservoir Dam

MOODUS RIVER· Middlesex, Connecticut· Built 1882· Earth· 18 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation State Government

Key Takeaway

Moodus Reservoir Dam is classified as significant hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1882 and is 144 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 18 ft (taller than 67.8% in CT)
Dam Length275 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage4.3K acre-ft
Normal Storage2.9K acre-ft
Surface Area451 acres
Drainage Area11 sq mi
Max Discharge2,182 cfs
Year Completed1882 (144 years old)
NID IDCT00350

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEEP

Ownership

Connecticut DEEP

State Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Moodus Reservoir Dam?

Moodus 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 Moodus Reservoir Dam?

Moodus Reservoir Dam is owned by Connecticut DEEP (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Moodus Reservoir Dam built?

Moodus Reservoir Dam was completed in 1882, making it 144 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 Moodus Reservoir Dam?

Moodus 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 Moodus Reservoir Dam?

Moodus Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 18 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.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.