Pinewood Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Pinewood Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1890 and is 136 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
| Dam Height | 28 ft (taller than 85.5% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 450 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 920 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 630 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 60 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 6,300 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1890 (136 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00080 |
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
Pinewood Lake Association
Private
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High Hazard 28 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Pinewood Lake Dam?
Pinewood Lake 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 Pinewood Lake Dam?
Pinewood Lake Dam is owned by Pinewood Lake Association (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Pinewood Lake Dam built?
Pinewood Lake 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 Pinewood Lake Dam?
Pinewood 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 Pinewood Lake Dam?
Pinewood Lake Dam has a dam height of 28 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 Pinewood Lake Dam last inspected?
Pinewood Lake Dam was last inspected on October 23, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.