Hartford Reservoir #6 East Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hartford Reservoir #6 East Dam, located in West Hartford, Connecticut, was completed in 1895 and serves as a critical water supply infrastructure for the region.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 42 feet and stretches 3500 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 3500 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Tumble Brook, with a maximum discharge capacity of 2560 cubic feet per second.

Despite its age, Hartford Reservoir #6 East Dam is regularly inspected by the state regulatory agency, DEEP, and has been deemed to be in fair condition with a high hazard potential. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in 2016, ensuring that appropriate measures are in place to mitigate risks and safeguard the surrounding community in the event of a potential breach. With its vital role in water supply and its strategic location, this dam is a key component of Connecticut's water resource management infrastructure.

As a site of historical significance and ongoing importance for water management in the region, Hartford Reservoir #6 East Dam stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of infrastructure development in the face of changing climate conditions. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience can appreciate the intricate design and functionality of this dam, which continues to play a crucial role in ensuring water security for the local community.

Year Completed

1895

Dam Length

3500

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

TUMBLE BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

145

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

3500

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

42
       
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.