Winchester Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Winchester Lake Dam, located in Winchester, Connecticut, serves as a vital water resource for the community while also providing recreational opportunities.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

As a state-regulated dam with a significant hazard potential, it has a structural height of 23 feet and a length of 675 feet, holding a normal storage capacity of 2280 acre-feet. The dam, primarily made of earth, is situated on the East Branch of the Naugatuck River, contributing to a surface area of 250 acres and draining an area of 2.19 square miles.

Managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), Winchester Lake Dam underwent its last inspection in May 2015, with a satisfactory condition assessment. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) was last revised in December 2015, ensuring preparedness for any potential risks. With a spillway width of 25 feet and no associated locks, the dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water conservation efforts in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Winchester Lake Dam symbolizes the intersection of environmental stewardship and community recreation, highlighting the importance of sustainable water management practices.

Dam Length

675

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

E BR NAUGATUCK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

250

Drainage Area

2.19

Nid Storage

2280

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

23
       
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.