Lake Forest Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Forest Dam, located in Bridgeport, Connecticut, was completed in 1899 and serves as a recreational resource for the community.


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Summary

This private earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and has a length of 1650 feet, creating a surface area of 71 acres and a drainage area of 1.45 square miles. With a maximum storage capacity of 908 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 852 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

The dam's hazard potential is classified as high, but its condition assessment is rated as satisfactory as of the last inspection in November 2016. The dam has regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite its age, Lake Forest Dam continues to provide valuable recreational opportunities and water storage capabilities for the surrounding area. With its location on Island Brook and its proximity to the New England District, the dam serves as an important landmark in the region for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Lake Forest Dam's emergency action plan was last updated in September 2018, indicating a commitment to preparedness and risk management. While there are no associated federal agencies or funding for the dam, its state-regulated status and private ownership demonstrate a collaborative effort to maintain its integrity and address any potential risks. Overall, Lake Forest Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices and serves as a reminder of the intersection between human development and natural resources in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1899

Dam Length

1650

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

ISLAND BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

71

Drainage Area

1.45

Nid Storage

908

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

28
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds