Shelton Reservoir #3 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Shelton Reservoir #3 Dam, also known as Hope Lake, is a concrete structure located in Shelton, Connecticut, with a primary purpose of water supply.


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Summary

Completed in 1915, the dam stands at a height of 18 feet and has a storage capacity of 108 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Curtiss Brook and serves as a vital resource for the local community.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), the dam has a significant hazard potential and was last inspected in October 2017. With a fair condition assessment, the dam is regularly monitored and inspected to ensure its safety and functionality. The reservoir covers a surface area of 12 acres and has a drainage area of 0.24 square miles, making it a crucial part of the water supply infrastructure in the area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Shelton Reservoir #3 Dam presents a fascinating example of early 20th-century engineering and water management practices. Its historical significance, combined with its modern regulatory oversight and monitoring, showcases the ongoing importance of maintaining and safeguarding our water resources for future generations. The dam's role in providing water supply to the community highlights the interconnectedness of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and public health in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1915

Dam Length

160

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

CURTISS BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

0.24

Nid Storage

108

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

18
       
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.