Samuel Bargh Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Samuel Bargh Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1955 and is 71 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 | 75 ft (taller than 97.8% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 950 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 7.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 7.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 230 acres |
| Drainage Area | 18 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 3,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1955 (71 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00050 |
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 Samuel Bargh Reservoir Dam?
Samuel Bargh 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 Samuel Bargh Reservoir Dam?
Samuel Bargh 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 Samuel Bargh Reservoir Dam built?
Samuel Bargh Reservoir Dam was completed in 1955, making it 71 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 Samuel Bargh Reservoir Dam?
Samuel Bargh 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 Samuel Bargh Reservoir Dam?
Samuel Bargh Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 75 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 Samuel Bargh Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Samuel Bargh Reservoir Dam was last inspected on August 27, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.