Branford Supply Ponds Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Branford Supply Ponds Dam, located in Branford, Connecticut, is a concrete structure completed in 1911 with a primary purpose of recreation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam, standing at 15 feet in height and 170 feet in length, plays a key role in managing water resources in the area. It impounds Pisgah Brook, creating a storage capacity of 202 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 29 acres.

Despite its age, the dam is in fair condition with a significant hazard potential, as assessed in June 2015. The dam has a spillway width of 64 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 450 cubic feet per second. It is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and undergoes regular inspections every 5 years. In case of emergencies, an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is in place, last revised in December 2017.

Overall, Branford Supply Ponds Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for water management and recreational purposes in the region. Its presence on Pisgah Brook ensures the conservation of water resources and provides opportunities for outdoor activities. With proper maintenance and regulatory oversight, the dam continues to fulfill its function while ensuring public safety and environmental protection.

Year Completed

1911

Dam Length

170

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

PISGAH BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

29

Drainage Area

3.85

Nid Storage

202

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

15
       
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.