Wrights Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Wrights 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 | 10 ft (taller than 29.6% in CT) |
| Dam Length | 292 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 200 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 131 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 30 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,060 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1890 (136 years old) |
| NID ID | CT00393 |
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
Connecticut DEEP
State Government
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Significant Hazard 11 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Wrights Pond Dam?
Wrights 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 Wrights Pond Dam?
Wrights Pond Dam is owned by Connecticut DEEP (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Wrights Pond Dam built?
Wrights 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 Wrights Pond Dam?
Wrights 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 Wrights Pond Dam?
Wrights Pond Dam has a dam height of 10 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 Wrights Pond Dam last inspected?
Wrights Pond Dam was last inspected on October 10, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.