Laurel Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Laurel Reservoir Dam, located in North Stamford, Connecticut, is a concrete dam completed in 1923 for the primary purpose of water supply.


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Summary

With a height of 50 feet and a length of 1850 feet, the dam holds a normal storage capacity of 11,000 acre-feet, serving the surrounding area's water needs. Situated on the Rippowam River, the reservoir covers a surface area of 265 acres and has a drainage area of 13.4 square miles.

Maintained by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), Laurel Reservoir Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state agency to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has a high hazard potential due to its location and purpose, but as of the last assessment in June 2019, its condition was deemed satisfactory. In case of emergencies, an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is in place, and the dam has regular inspections every two years to ensure compliance with safety guidelines.

With its historical significance and critical role in water supply management, Laurel Reservoir Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable infrastructure in preserving water resources and adapting to changing climate conditions. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of human development and environmental stewardship in safeguarding our natural ecosystems for future generations.

Year Completed

1923

Dam Length

1850

Dam Height

50

River Or Stream

RIPPOWAM RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

265

Drainage Area

13.4

Nid Storage

11000

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

50
       
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.