Rugg Brook Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Rugg Brook Reservoir Dam, located in Winchester, Connecticut, was completed in 1890 and serves as a critical water supply structure for the area.


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Summary

With a dam height of 36 feet and a storage capacity of 726 acre-feet, the reservoir covers a surface area of 44.16 acres and has a drainage area of 2.39 square miles. The dam is primarily made of concrete and is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP).

Despite its historical significance and importance for water supply, the Rugg Brook Reservoir Dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition with a significant hazard potential. The last inspection in 2016 revealed the need for improvements and the dam has been classified as requiring frequent monitoring and maintenance. The dam's spillway width is noted as 65 feet, and it is associated with two other structures, CT00103S02 and CT00103S03.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the Rugg Brook Reservoir Dam will find a historical landmark that plays a crucial role in the local water supply system. As a concrete structure with a long history, its current condition and hazard potential highlight the need for ongoing maintenance and potential upgrades to ensure its continued safety and functionality for the surrounding community. The dam's location on the Mad River in Litchfield County, Connecticut adds to its environmental significance and the importance of proper management and regulation by state authorities.

Year Completed

1890

Dam Length

305

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

MAD RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

44.16

Drainage Area

2.39

Nid Storage

726

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

36
       
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.