Putnam Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Putnam Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1910 and is 116 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 | 35 ft (taller than 91.3% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 640 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 105 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,560 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1910 (116 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00041 |
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
Aquarion Water Company of Connecticut
Public Utility
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Significant Hazard 15 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Putnam Reservoir Dam?
Putnam 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 Putnam Reservoir Dam?
Putnam Reservoir Dam is owned by Aquarion Water Company of Connecticut (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Putnam Reservoir Dam built?
Putnam Reservoir Dam was completed in 1910, making it 116 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 Putnam Reservoir Dam?
Putnam 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 Putnam Reservoir Dam?
Putnam Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 35 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 Putnam Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Putnam Reservoir Dam was last inspected on August 27, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.