Canoe Brook Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Canoe Brook Lake Dam, located in Trumbull, Connecticut, is a private recreational dam built in 1870 with a primary purpose of providing recreational opportunities.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 33 feet and spans 360 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 1,100 acre-feet and a surface area of 62 acres. The dam regulates the flow of Canoe Brook and has a maximum discharge capacity of 3,150 cubic feet per second.

The dam is state-regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), with inspections conducted regularly to ensure its structural integrity. Despite being classified with a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in May 2020 was marked as satisfactory. Emergency action plans and risk management measures are in place, highlighting the commitment to safety and preparedness in the face of potential hazards.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the historical significance and engineering marvel of Canoe Brook Lake Dam, as well as the efforts taken to mitigate risks and ensure its continued safe operation. The dam serves as a vital component of the local ecosystem, providing recreational opportunities while also balancing the need for flood control and water management in the region. Its location in the picturesque Fairfield County adds to its allure, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in dams, water resources, and environmental conservation.

Year Completed

1870

Dam Length

360

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

CANOE BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

62

Drainage Area

1.8

Nid Storage

1100

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

33
       
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.