Sawmill Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Sawmill Pond Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1870 and is 156 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 | 12 ft (taller than 42.4% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 260 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 64 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 40 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 13 acres |
| Drainage Area | 29 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,120 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1870 (156 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00627 |
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
McGuire
Private
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Rubber Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 8 ftDouglas Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 4 ftBeach Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 12 ftPachaug Pond Dam
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High Hazard 17 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sawmill Pond Dam?
Sawmill Pond 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 Sawmill Pond Dam?
Sawmill Pond Dam is owned by McGuire (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sawmill Pond Dam built?
Sawmill Pond Dam was completed in 1870, making it 156 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 Sawmill Pond Dam?
Sawmill Pond 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 Sawmill Pond Dam?
Sawmill Pond Dam has a dam height of 12 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 Sawmill Pond Dam last inspected?
Sawmill Pond Dam was last inspected on July 26, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.