Crystal Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Crystal Lake Dam, located in Middletown, Connecticut, is a concrete structure with a height of 50 feet and a length of 130 feet.


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Summary

Built in 1850, the dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a surface area of 30.8 acres and a normal storage capacity of 154 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Prout Brook and is owned and regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP).

Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Crystal Lake Dam has been assessed as having a poor condition and a high hazard potential. The last inspection in October 2016 revealed the need for improvements, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. The dam operates with an uncontrolled spillway type and has a maximum discharge capacity of 180 cubic feet per second. While the dam has not undergone significant modifications in recent years, it is subject to regular state inspections and enforcement measures to ensure public safety.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor the condition and management of dams like Crystal Lake Dam to mitigate potential risks and preserve their environmental and recreational benefits. With its historical significance and high hazard potential, efforts to improve the dam's condition and emergency preparedness are crucial to safeguarding the surrounding community and ecosystem. Stay informed about ongoing assessments and risk management measures to support the sustainable use of this vital water resource in Connecticut.

Year Completed

1850

Dam Length

130

Dam Height

50

River Or Stream

PROUT BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

30.8

Drainage Area

0.26

Nid Storage

350

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

50
       
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.