Ruben Hart Reservoir Dam, located in Drakeville, Connecticut, is a concrete dam completed in 1933 with a primary purpose of irrigation.
Wind
Humidity
The dam stands at a height of 50 feet and stretches 1000 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 3100 acre-feet. Situated on Hart Brook, the reservoir covers 141 acres and serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area, with a maximum discharge capacity of 7000 cubic feet per second.
Managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2019 deemed it satisfactory, with a moderate risk rating. The reservoir's emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures are currently under review, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance safety protocols and disaster preparedness.
With its strategic location and significant impact on water supply and management, Ruben Hart Reservoir Dam stands as a critical infrastructure asset in Litchfield County. As a key component of the region's irrigation system, the dam plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities and sustaining local water resources. Its impressive engineering design and operational capacity make it a noteworthy landmark for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in understanding the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and community resilience.
Year Completed |
1933 |
Dam Length |
1000 |
Dam Height |
50 |
River Or Stream |
HART BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
141 |
Drainage Area |
5.07 |
Nid Storage |
3100 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
50 |
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