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Lake Housatonic, also known as Derby Dam, is a historic masonry dam located on the Housatonic River in Shelton, Connecticut.
Built in 1870, this dam serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply. With a height of 25.2 feet and a length of 850 feet, Lake Housatonic has a normal storage capacity of 4400 acre-feet and a surface area of 325 acres.
Managed by a private owner, Lake Housatonic is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and does not fall under state jurisdiction. The dam has a high hazard potential and is inspected annually to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a crucial role in providing clean energy and recreational opportunities for the surrounding community.
Situated in New Haven County, Lake Housatonic offers a picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate the intersection of human engineering with the natural environment. With its uncontrolled spillway and maximum discharge capacity of 160,000 cubic feet per second, this historic dam remains a significant landmark in the region, blending functionality with scenic beauty along the Housatonic River.
Housatonic River At Stevenson
|
2230cfs |
Naugatuck River At Beacon Falls
|
277cfs |
Pootatuck R At Sandy Hook
|
26cfs |
Rooster River At Fairfield
|
6cfs |
Mill R Nr Hamden
|
24cfs |
Pomperaug River At Southbury
|
72cfs |
Year Completed |
1870 |
Dam Length |
850 |
Dam Height |
25.2 |
River Or Stream |
Housatonic River |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
325 |
Drainage Area |
1574 |
Nid Storage |
4400 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
25 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Kettletown State Park
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Youth Camp III
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Youth Camp II
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Youth Camp I
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Black Rock State Park
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SR3
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Begins Downstream Of The Borough Of Bantam, At Stoddard Road Bridge To The Confluence With The Shepaug River
Pond Downstream Of Shepaug Reservoir Dam, Marked By Service Road Bridge To Ends In Backwaters Of Lake Lillinonah, Near Roxbury Falls
Kent Bridge To Boardman Bridge
Begins Below The Tailrace Of The Lower Collinsville Dam To The Route 187 Bridge
The Confluence With The Nepaug River To A Point 0.2 Miles Below The Lower Collinsville Dam Tailrace
New Hartford/Canton Town Line To The Confluence With The Nepaug River