West Hill Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
West Hill Pond Dam is classified as significant hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 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 | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 230 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 60 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1900 (126 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2015 |
| NID ID | CT00377 |
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
Barkhamsted;Laurel Acres Property Owners Assoc. Inc.;West Hill Pond Association Trustees
Private
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High Hazard 17 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of West Hill Pond Dam?
West Hill 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 West Hill Pond Dam?
West Hill Pond Dam is owned by Barkhamsted;Laurel Acres Property Owners Assoc. Inc.;West Hill Pond Association Trustees (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was West Hill Pond Dam built?
West Hill Pond Dam was completed in 1900, making it 126 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 West Hill Pond Dam?
West Hill 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 West Hill Pond Dam?
West Hill Pond 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 West Hill Pond Dam last inspected?
West Hill Pond Dam was last inspected on May 21, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.