Upper Guilford Lakes Dam
Key Takeaway
Upper Guilford Lakes Dam is classified as significant hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1929 and is 97 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 12 ft (taller than 42.4% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 200 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 83 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 50 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 10 acres |
| Drainage Area | 10 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 630 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1929 (97 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00412 |
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
Guilford Lakes Improvement Association
Private
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Significant Hazard 8 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Upper Guilford Lakes Dam?
Upper Guilford Lakes 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 Upper Guilford Lakes Dam?
Upper Guilford Lakes Dam is owned by Guilford Lakes Improvement Association (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Upper Guilford Lakes Dam built?
Upper Guilford Lakes Dam was completed in 1929, making it 97 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 Upper Guilford Lakes Dam?
Upper Guilford Lakes 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 Upper Guilford Lakes Dam?
Upper Guilford Lakes Dam has a dam height of 12 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 Upper Guilford Lakes Dam last inspected?
Upper Guilford Lakes Dam was last inspected on January 2, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.