Picketts Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Picketts Pond Dam in Derby, Connecticut, is a state-regulated structure primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1963, this masonry dam stands at a height of 3 feet and has a length of 100 feet, with a storage capacity of 29 acre-feet. The dam is located on an unnamed river or stream, providing a surface area of 8.3 acres and draining an area of 1.75 square miles.

Despite its small size, Picketts Pond Dam has a significant hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections to ensure its satisfactory condition. The last inspection in August 2018 found the dam to be in good shape, with an inspection frequency of 5 years. The dam does not have outlet gates or associated structures, but it is equipped with a spillway width of 6 feet. While the dam does not fall under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers, it is managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Picketts Pond Dam will find a quaint yet essential structure that contributes to water management and recreational activities in the area. With its historical significance dating back to the 1960s, the dam continues to serve its purpose while being closely monitored for any potential risks or hazards. The picturesque setting of Picketts Pond Dam offers a tranquil environment for visitors to enjoy and appreciate the importance of water resource management in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

3

River Or Stream

UNNAMED

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

8.3

Drainage Area

1.75

Nid Storage

29

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

3
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.