Shenipsit Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Shenipsit Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1903 and is 123 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 | 27 ft (taller than 85.1% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 214 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 8.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 8.7K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 685 acres |
| Drainage Area | 17 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,600 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1903 (123 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00209 |
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
Connecticut Water Company
Public Utility
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Significant Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Shenipsit Lake Dam?
Shenipsit Lake 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 Shenipsit Lake Dam?
Shenipsit Lake Dam is owned by Connecticut Water Company (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Shenipsit Lake Dam built?
Shenipsit Lake Dam was completed in 1903, making it 123 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 Shenipsit Lake Dam?
Shenipsit Lake 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 Shenipsit Lake Dam?
Shenipsit Lake Dam has a dam height of 27 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 Shenipsit Lake Dam last inspected?
Shenipsit Lake Dam was last inspected on November 13, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.