Willimantic Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Willimantic Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Connecticut. It was completed in 1885 and is 141 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 | 29 ft (taller than 86.8% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 491 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 1.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 750 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 100 acres |
| Drainage Area | 166 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 38,125 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1885 (141 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00198 |
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
Willimantic Water Works Dept.
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 9 ftBig Pond Dam
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High Hazard 20 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Willimantic Reservoir Dam?
Willimantic 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 Willimantic Reservoir Dam?
Willimantic Reservoir Dam is owned by Willimantic Water Works Dept. (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Willimantic Reservoir Dam built?
Willimantic Reservoir Dam was completed in 1885, making it 141 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 Willimantic Reservoir Dam?
Willimantic 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 Willimantic Reservoir Dam?
Willimantic Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 29 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 Willimantic Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Willimantic Reservoir Dam was last inspected on October 8, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.