Swan Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Swan Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. 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 | 28 ft (taller than 85.5% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 325 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 278 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 216 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 27 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 245 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1920 (106 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1994 |
| NID ID | CT00328 |
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
Swan Lake Estates
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Swan Lake Dam?
Swan 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 Swan Lake Dam?
Swan Lake Dam is owned by Swan Lake Estates (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Swan Lake Dam built?
Swan Lake Dam was completed in 1920, making it 106 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 Swan Lake Dam?
Swan Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Swan Lake Dam?
Swan Lake Dam has a dam height of 28 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 Swan Lake Dam last inspected?
Swan Lake Dam was last inspected on November 8, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.