Somersville Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Somersville Pond Dam is classified as significant hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1890 and is 136 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 22 ft (taller than 78.5% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 185 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 533 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 350 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 45 acres |
| Drainage Area | 57 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 3,165 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1890 (136 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00273 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Connecticut DEEP
State Government
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Significant Hazard 9 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Somersville Pond Dam?
Somersville Pond 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 Somersville Pond Dam?
Somersville Pond Dam is owned by Connecticut DEEP (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Somersville Pond Dam built?
Somersville Pond Dam was completed in 1890, making it 136 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 Somersville Pond Dam?
Somersville 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 Somersville Pond Dam?
Somersville Pond Dam has a dam height of 22 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 Somersville Pond Dam last inspected?
Somersville Pond Dam was last inspected on April 21, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.