Portland Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Portland Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1964 and is 62 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 | 28 ft (taller than 85.5% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 800 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 510 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 375 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 30 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1964 (62 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1995 |
| NID ID | CT00149 |
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 Portland
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Significant Hazard 15 ftCold Brook Reservoir Dam
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Significant Hazard 10 ftDividend Pond-Upper Dam
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Significant Hazard 6 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Portland Reservoir Dam?
Portland 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 Portland Reservoir Dam?
Portland Reservoir Dam is owned by Town of Portland (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Portland Reservoir Dam built?
Portland Reservoir Dam was completed in 1964, making it 62 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 Portland Reservoir Dam?
Portland 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 Portland Reservoir Dam?
Portland Reservoir 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 Portland Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Portland Reservoir Dam was last inspected on December 2, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.