Pistapaug Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Pistapaug Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1941 and is 85 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 | 8 ft (taller than 17.6% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 465 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 4.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.6K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 149 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 400 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1941 (85 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00034 |
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
Town of Wallingford
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 4 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Pistapaug Reservoir Dam?
Pistapaug 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 Pistapaug Reservoir Dam?
Pistapaug Reservoir Dam is owned by Town of Wallingford (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Pistapaug Reservoir Dam built?
Pistapaug Reservoir Dam was completed in 1941, making it 85 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 Pistapaug Reservoir Dam?
Pistapaug 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 Pistapaug Reservoir Dam?
Pistapaug Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 8 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 Pistapaug Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Pistapaug Reservoir Dam was last inspected on November 4, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.