Rainbow Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Rainbow Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1925 and is 101 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 | 43 ft (taller than 94.8% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 1,310 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 9.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 4.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 235 acres |
| Drainage Area | 588 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 101,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1925 (101 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00039 |
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
The Farmington River Power Co.
Public Utility
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High Hazard 8 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Rainbow Reservoir Dam?
Rainbow 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 Rainbow Reservoir Dam?
Rainbow Reservoir Dam is owned by The Farmington River Power Co. (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Rainbow Reservoir Dam built?
Rainbow Reservoir Dam was completed in 1925, making it 101 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 Rainbow Reservoir Dam?
Rainbow Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Rainbow Reservoir Dam?
Rainbow Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 43 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 Rainbow Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Rainbow Reservoir Dam was last inspected on June 26, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.