Black Pond Dam in Meriden, Connecticut, is a local government-owned structure that serves as a recreational destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1880, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a length of 200 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 353 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Spoon Shop Brook and has a spillway width of 12 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 250 cubic feet per second.
Despite the dam's satisfactory condition assessment as of September 2020, it is classified as having a high hazard potential due to its location and design. The dam is regularly inspected every two years to ensure its safety and functionality. While the risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level, there are currently no specific risk management measures in place. The primary purpose of Black Pond Dam is for recreation, offering a surface area of 76 acres for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.
As a significant feature in the New Haven County landscape, Black Pond Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. Its historical significance, combined with its recreational value, underscores the importance of maintaining and monitoring this dam to ensure the safety of both the surrounding community and the environment.
Year Completed |
1880 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
SPOON SHOP BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
76 |
Drainage Area |
1.2 |
Nid Storage |
353 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
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|
60cfs |
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|
147cfs |
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|
16cfs |
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|
14900cfs |
Mill R Nr Hamden
|
20cfs |
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|
119cfs |