West Lake Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
West Lake Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1906 and is 120 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 42 ft (taller than 94.5% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 950 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 248 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,715 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1906 (120 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00070 |
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
City of Danbury
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 24 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of West Lake Reservoir Dam?
West Lake Reservoir 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 West Lake Reservoir Dam?
West Lake Reservoir Dam is owned by City of Danbury (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was West Lake Reservoir Dam built?
West Lake Reservoir Dam was completed in 1906, making it 120 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 Lake Reservoir Dam?
West Lake Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is West Lake Reservoir Dam?
West Lake Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 42 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 Lake Reservoir Dam last inspected?
West Lake Reservoir Dam was last inspected on October 22, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.