Eureka Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Eureka Lake Dam, located in Bethel, Connecticut, serves as a vital water supply source for the local community.


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Summary

Constructed in 1878, this concrete dam stands at a height of 9.5 feet and has a length of 250 feet, with a storage capacity of 250 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is water supply, with a normal storage capacity of 210 acre-feet and a surface area of 32.3 acres.

Managed by the local government, Eureka Lake Dam is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is deemed satisfactory as of the last inspection in August 2020. With a moderate risk rating, measures are in place to manage any potential risks associated with the dam.

Surrounded by the scenic beauty of Fairfield County, Eureka Lake Dam plays a crucial role in providing water security to the region. To water resource and climate enthusiasts, this historic dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in ensuring the safety and well-being of local communities.

Year Completed

1878

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

9.5

River Or Stream

UN-NAMED TRIBUTARY TO MURPHY BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

32.3

Drainage Area

0.45

Nid Storage

250

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

10
       
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.