Thurston Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Thurston Pond Dam, located in Naugatuck, Connecticut, is a privately owned structure that has been serving as a recreational area since its completion in 1890.
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Summary
With a dam height of 20 feet and a length of 510 feet, this earth dam holds a storage capacity of 45 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 29 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the Naugatuck River Tributary and covers a surface area of 3.7 acres, making it a picturesque spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Despite its age, Thurston Pond Dam has been maintained in satisfactory condition, with regular inspections conducted to ensure its structural integrity. The dam is classified as having a high hazard potential due to its location and storage capacity, but it is deemed to be at moderate risk according to a risk assessment. The spillway of the dam is uncontrolled, with a width of 122 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 2400 cubic feet per second in case of high water levels. This combination of factors makes Thurston Pond Dam an important and intriguing site for those interested in water resource management and climate impact mitigation.
The dam is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and falls under state jurisdiction for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With its historical significance and potential risks, Thurston Pond Dam serves as a focal point for monitoring and managing water resources in the region. Its presence along the Naugatuck River Tributary adds to the diverse landscape of water infrastructure in New Haven County, making it a notable location for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and study.
Year Completed |
1890 |
Dam Length |
510 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
NAUGATUCK RIVER TRIB |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.7 |
Drainage Area |
7.8 |
Nid Storage |
45 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Naugatuck River At Beacon Falls
|
258cfs |
Pomperaug River At Southbury
|
71cfs |
Nonewaug River At Minortown
|
8cfs |
Housatonic River At Stevenson
|
455cfs |
Weekeepeemee River At Hotchkissville
|
21cfs |
Mill R Nr Hamden
|
20cfs |
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.
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