Samp Mortar Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Samp Mortar Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1901 and is 125 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 29 ft (taller than 86.8% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 320 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 588 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 333 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 40 acres |
| Drainage Area | 24 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 5,270 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1901 (125 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2002 |
| NID ID | CT00017 |
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
Lake Hills Association, Inc.
Private
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Significant Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Samp Mortar Reservoir Dam?
Samp Mortar 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 Samp Mortar Reservoir Dam?
Samp Mortar Reservoir Dam is owned by Lake Hills Association, Inc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Samp Mortar Reservoir Dam built?
Samp Mortar Reservoir Dam was completed in 1901, making it 125 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 Samp Mortar Reservoir Dam?
Samp Mortar Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Samp Mortar Reservoir Dam?
Samp Mortar Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 29 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 Samp Mortar Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Samp Mortar Reservoir Dam was last inspected on January 21, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.