Porter Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Porter Reservoir Dam is classified as significant hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1902 and is 124 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 32 ft (taller than 89.8% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 600 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 100 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 45 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 8 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 970 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1902 (124 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1986 |
| NID ID | CT00014 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Town of Manchester
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Howard Reservoir Dam
Hartford, CT
High Hazard 44 ftCase Brothers Upper Pond Dam
Hartford, CT
Significant Hazard 16 ftCase Brothers Lower Pond Dam
Hartford, CT
Significant Hazard 27 ftWilson Brook Detention Dam
Hartford, CT
Significant Hazard 20 ftManchester Reservoir #2 Dam
Hartford, CT
Significant Hazard 15 ftManchester Reservoir #1 Dam
Hartford, CT
Significant Hazard 15 ftRisley Reservoir Dam
Tolland, CT
Significant Hazard 28 ftLydall Pond #1 Dam
Hartford, CT
Significant Hazard 12 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Porter Reservoir Dam?
Porter 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 Porter Reservoir Dam?
Porter Reservoir Dam is owned by Town of Manchester (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Porter Reservoir Dam built?
Porter Reservoir Dam was completed in 1902, making it 124 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 Porter Reservoir Dam?
Porter 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 Porter Reservoir Dam?
Porter Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 32 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 Porter Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Porter Reservoir Dam was last inspected on July 30, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.