Sterling Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Sterling 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 | 19 ft (taller than 71.2% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 1,010 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 125 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 50 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 16 acres |
| Drainage Area | 43 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,940 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1870 (156 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00610 |
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
Town of Sterling
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Exeter Energy Storage Basin Dam
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Significant Hazard 7 ftOneco Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 9 ftBrunswick
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Low Hazard 19 ftMoosup Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 7 ftAqua Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 11 ftSnake Meadow Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 11 ftPorter Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 9 ftCat'S Corner Dam
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Significant Hazard 14 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sterling Pond Dam?
Sterling 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 Sterling Pond Dam?
Sterling Pond Dam is owned by Town of Sterling (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sterling Pond Dam built?
Sterling 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 Sterling Pond Dam?
Sterling 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 Sterling Pond Dam?
Sterling Pond Dam has a dam height of 19 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 Sterling Pond Dam last inspected?
Sterling Pond Dam was last inspected on November 12, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.