Hemlock Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hemlock Reservoir Dam, located in Fairfield, Connecticut, was completed in 1914 and serves as a crucial water supply infrastructure for the region.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 75 feet and spanning 1100 feet in length, this masonry dam holds a storage capacity of 11,635 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 437 acres. The dam's primary purpose is to provide water for the surrounding communities, ensuring a reliable source for both residential and industrial needs.

Managed by a public utility, Hemlock Reservoir Dam is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and undergoes regular inspections to maintain its fair condition and high hazard potential rating. The dam overlooks the Cricker Brook river and is situated in a picturesque natural setting, making it a significant landmark in the area. With a maximum discharge capacity of 4,670 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water management within the region.

Despite its age, Hemlock Reservoir Dam continues to fulfill its essential function of providing clean and reliable water to the community. With a strong regulatory framework in place and a dedicated maintenance schedule, the dam stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1914

Dam Length

1100

Dam Height

75

River Or Stream

CRICKER BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

437

Drainage Area

5.3

Nid Storage

11635

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

75
       
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.
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