Hartford Reservoir #1 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hartford Reservoir #1 Dam, located in West Hartford, Connecticut, is a key structure managed by a public utility for hydroelectric purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1868, this Earth dam stands at a height of 46 feet and spans a length of 745 feet, with a storage capacity of 665 acre-feet. The dam sits on an unnamed river or stream, serving as a vital component for water resource management in the region.

Despite its historical significance, Hartford Reservoir #1 Dam faces challenges in terms of its condition assessment, with a rating of poor and a high hazard potential. The last inspection in July 2019 highlighted the need for maintenance and potential upgrades to ensure the safety and stability of the structure. With a high hazard potential, it is crucial for regulatory agencies like DEEP to actively monitor and enforce the necessary measures to mitigate risks and ensure the dam's reliability.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, Hartford Reservoir #1 Dam serves as a critical asset for hydroelectric power generation and water storage in the region. With its location in the New England District and under state jurisdiction, the dam plays a vital role in supporting the community's water needs and energy demands. Moving forward, a focus on regular inspections, maintenance, and potential upgrades will be essential to ensure the long-term resilience and efficiency of this important infrastructure.

Year Completed

1868

Dam Length

745

Dam Height

46

River Or Stream

UNNAMED

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

27

Drainage Area

5.4

Nid Storage

665

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

46
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.