Merriman Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Merriman Pond Dam, also known as Lockwood Pond, is a vital water resource in Watertown, Connecticut, serving primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1900, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and stretches 475 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 170 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Smith Pond Brook Tributary and is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP).

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of December 2020, Merriman Pond Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its proximity to populated areas. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 53 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 336 cubic feet per second. Its risk assessment is moderate, with a hazard potential rating of 3. Regular inspections are conducted every two years to ensure the dam's structural integrity and safety.

As a significant water management structure in Litchfield County, Merriman Pond Dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water storage for the region. Its presence not only supports recreational activities but also serves as a key component of the local water infrastructure. Climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates can appreciate the importance of maintaining and monitoring this dam to ensure its continued functionality and safety for the surrounding community.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

475

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

SMITH POND BK TRIB

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

34

Drainage Area

0.63

Nid Storage

170

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

16
       
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.