Island Brook Lagoon Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Island Brook Lagoon Dam, also known as Charcoal Pond, is a privately owned recreational structure located in Bridgeport, Connecticut.


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Summary

This masonry dam stands at a height of 19 feet and has a length of 145 feet, providing a storage capacity of 105 acre-feet. With a surface area of 5 acres and a drainage area of 1.66 square miles, the dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities and water recreation.

While the dam's primary purpose is for recreation, it is also state-regulated and subject to inspection, enforcement, and permitting by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP). The dam has a spillway width of 25 feet and a maximum discharge of 780 cubic feet per second, highlighting its importance in managing water flow and preventing potential hazards. Despite being classified with a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment as of 2013 was deemed fair, emphasizing the need for continued monitoring and risk management measures.

Island Brook Lagoon Dam's picturesque location along the Island Brook stream, combined with its historic significance and recreational offerings, makes it a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts in Fairfield County. As efforts to maintain and improve the dam's safety and functionality continue, its role in preserving water resources and providing leisure opportunities for the community remains crucial in ensuring a sustainable and enjoyable environment for all.

Dam Length

145

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

ISLAND BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

5

Drainage Area

1.66

Nid Storage

105

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

19
       
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.