Thurston Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Thurston Pond Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1890 and is 136 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 | 20 ft (taller than 72.5% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 510 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 45 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 29 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 4 acres |
| Drainage Area | 8 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,400 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1890 (136 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00129 |
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
Borough of Naugatuck
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 18 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Thurston Pond Dam?
Thurston 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 Thurston Pond Dam?
Thurston Pond Dam is owned by Borough of Naugatuck (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Thurston Pond Dam built?
Thurston 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 Thurston Pond Dam?
Thurston 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 Thurston Pond Dam?
Thurston Pond Dam has a dam height of 20 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 Thurston Pond Dam last inspected?
Thurston Pond Dam was last inspected on March 17, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.