Kinneytown Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kinneytown, located in Ansonia, Connecticut, is a privately-owned hydroelectric dam on the Naugatuck River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1913, this gravity dam stands at 20.5 feet high and spans 413 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 881 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation and water supply for the surrounding area. Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Kinneytown has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.

Despite its age, Kinneytown has not undergone recent condition assessments, and its emergency action plan has not been updated since 2014. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width matching the dam's length, allowing for a maximum discharge of 59,000 cubic feet per second. With a drainage area of 309 square miles and a surface area of 68 acres, Kinneytown plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of the Naugatuck River and maintaining water resources in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Kinneytown represents a historic landmark in Connecticut's hydroelectric infrastructure, showcasing the intersection of human innovation and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1913

Dam Length

413

Dam Height

20.5

River Or Stream

Naugatuck River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

68

Drainage Area

309

Nid Storage

881

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

21
       
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.