Wepawaug Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Wepawaug Reservoir Dam, located in Orange, Connecticut, was completed in 1911 and serves as a critical water supply structure for the area.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and spans a length of 1331 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 117 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Wepawaug River and is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), ensuring its proper maintenance and inspection.

With a surface area of 10.9 acres and a drainage area of 7.72 square miles, the Wepawaug Reservoir Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. The dam's spillway, with a width of 90 feet, is designed as uncontrolled, allowing for the safe release of excess water during periods of high discharge. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains satisfactory, with regular inspections conducted to ensure its structural integrity and safety measures.

As a primary water supply infrastructure, the Wepawaug Reservoir Dam not only provides essential resources for the community but also poses moderate risks that are actively managed to safeguard against potential hazards. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam stands as a vital component in ensuring a reliable water source for the residents of Orange and surrounding areas, reflecting the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate challenges.

Year Completed

1911

Dam Length

1331

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

WEPAWAUG RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10.9

Drainage Area

7.72

Nid Storage

117

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

18
       
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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.