Wards Mill Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Wards Mill Pond Dam, located in Branford, Connecticut, was completed in 1900 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
This masonry dam stands at a height of 9 feet and has a length of 147 feet, creating a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Branford River, within the New Haven County, and is under the regulatory authority of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP).
Despite its age, Wards Mill Pond Dam is considered to have a significant hazard potential, although its condition has not been officially rated. The dam has not undergone recent inspections, with the last inspection date unknown, and there is no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place as of the most recent data update in March 2021. With its location in a populated area and the potential risks associated with its condition, the dam may require further assessment and risk management measures to ensure public safety and the integrity of the structure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wards Mill Pond Dam presents an intriguing case study of a historic masonry dam in need of modern evaluation and potentially, upgrades to meet current safety standards. The dam's association with the Branford River and its role in providing recreational opportunities add to its significance, making it a focal point for discussions on water infrastructure management and the intersection of public safety with environmental conservation. As efforts continue to address the challenges posed by aging dams nationwide, Wards Mill Pond Dam stands as a reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and proactive measures in safeguarding our water resources and communities.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
147 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
BRANFORD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
10 |
Drainage Area |
25 |
Nid Storage |
55 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
9 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Mill R Nr Hamden
|
20cfs |
Quinnipiac River At Wallingford
|
147cfs |
Indian River Near Clinton
|
6cfs |
Coginchaug River At Middlefield
|
60cfs |
Naugatuck River At Beacon Falls
|
258cfs |
Housatonic River At Stevenson
|
455cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Wards Mill Pond Dam
Hosley Avenue Branford
Hammer Field
Youngs Pond Park
Town Open Space (lake Road)
Foote Memorial Park
Town Open Space (foxon Road)