Siscowit Reservoir Dam

RIPPOWAM RIVER· Fairfield, Connecticut· Built 1865· Earth· 6 ft tall
Significant Hazard Water Supply Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Siscowit Reservoir Dam is classified as significant hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1865 and is 161 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 6 ft (taller than 8.7% in CT)
Dam Length95 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage270 acre-ft
Normal Storage270 acre-ft
Surface Area5 acres
Drainage Area4 sq mi
Year Completed1865 (161 years old)
NID IDCT00056

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: October 4, 2017
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEEP

Ownership

Aquarion Water Company of Connecticut

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Siscowit Reservoir Dam?

Siscowit Reservoir Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Siscowit Reservoir Dam?

Siscowit 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 Siscowit Reservoir Dam built?

Siscowit Reservoir Dam was completed in 1865, making it 161 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 Siscowit Reservoir Dam?

Siscowit 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 Siscowit Reservoir Dam?

Siscowit Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 6 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 Siscowit Reservoir Dam last inspected?

Siscowit Reservoir Dam was last inspected on October 4, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.