East Mountain Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

East Mountain Reservoir Dam in Waterbury, Connecticut, stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity since its completion in 1880.


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Summary

With a primary purpose of recreation, this concrete dam spans 400 feet in length and reaches a height of 35 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 580 acre-feet. Situated on the East Mountain Brook, this structure serves as a vital water resource for the local community while also offering a scenic recreational area for visitors.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), East Mountain Reservoir Dam boasts a satisfactory condition assessment despite its high hazard potential. The dam's spillway type is categorized as uncontrolled, with an associated surface area of 36 acres and a drainage area of 0.57 square miles. The dam's risk assessment is rated as moderate, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of this essential water infrastructure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, East Mountain Reservoir Dam serves as a captivating example of historic dam engineering in Connecticut. Its role in providing both recreational opportunities and vital water storage underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions. As a focal point for local water supply and leisure activities, this dam stands as a testament to the enduring relationship between human infrastructure and natural ecosystems in the context of water resource management.

Year Completed

1880

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

EAST MOUNTAIN BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

36

Drainage Area

0.57

Nid Storage

580

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

35
       
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.