Shelton Canal Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Shelton Canal Dike in Connecticut, built in 1870, serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam has a height of 25 feet and a length of 1840 feet, with a storage capacity of 4400 acre-feet. Located on the Housatonic River, the dam is managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and has a low hazard potential.

Despite its age, the Shelton Canal Dike has shown a moderate risk level based on a risk assessment score of 3. While the condition assessment is not available, the dam has a scheduled inspection frequency of 3 years. With a spillway width of 16 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 448 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and protecting downstream areas from potential flooding. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find the Shelton Canal Dike a fascinating structure with a rich history and important functions in the region.

Year Completed

1870

Dam Length

1840

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

Housatonic River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

325

Drainage Area

1574

Nid Storage

4400

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.