Paper Mill Pond Dam

HOCKANUM RIVER· Tolland, Connecticut· Built 1900·
High Hazard Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Paper Mill Pond Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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

Max Storage90 acre-ft
Normal Storage40 acre-ft
Surface Area8 acres
Drainage Area17 sq mi
Year Completed1900 (126 years old)
NID IDCT00621

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

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

Ownership

Town of Vernon

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Paper Mill Pond Dam?

Paper Mill Pond 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 Paper Mill Pond Dam?

Paper Mill Pond Dam is owned by Town of Vernon (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Paper Mill Pond Dam built?

Paper Mill Pond Dam was completed in 1900, making it 126 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 Paper Mill Pond Dam?

Paper Mill Pond Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

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.