New Canaan Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
New Canaan Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1898 and is 128 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 | 44 ft (taller than 95.1% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 470 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 535 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 320 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 26 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 240 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1898 (128 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1997 |
| NID ID | CT00055 |
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
South Norwalk Electric and Water
Public Utility
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Significant Hazard 14 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of New Canaan Reservoir Dam?
New Canaan 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 New Canaan Reservoir Dam?
New Canaan Reservoir Dam is owned by South Norwalk Electric and Water (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was New Canaan Reservoir Dam built?
New Canaan Reservoir Dam was completed in 1898, making it 128 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 New Canaan Reservoir Dam?
New Canaan 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 New Canaan Reservoir Dam?
New Canaan Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 44 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 New Canaan Reservoir Dam last inspected?
New Canaan Reservoir Dam was last inspected on July 19, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.