Smith Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Smith Pond Dam, located in Watertown, Connecticut, serves as a vital recreational resource for the community.


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Summary

Built in 1927, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and stretches 200 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet. The dam spans the Smith Pond Brook, offering a tranquil surface area of 28.5 acres for various water activities.

Despite its picturesque setting, Smith Pond Dam poses a significant hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment. Inspected in July 2019, the dam's risk level is considered moderate, with a need for improved risk management measures. The dam's spillway, an uncontrolled type with a width of 15 feet, requires attention to ensure proper water discharge and prevent potential flooding issues in the surrounding area.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to recognize the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams like Smith Pond Dam to safeguard both the environment and local communities. With its state-regulated status and regular inspections, efforts are being made to address the dam's condition and reduce its risk level. By staying informed and engaged in the preservation of such water infrastructure, enthusiasts can contribute to the sustainable management of water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1927

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

SMITH POND BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

28.5

Drainage Area

0.42

Nid Storage

150

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

10
       
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.