Mount Higby Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mount Higby Reservoir Dam, located in Middletown, Connecticut, stands as a testament to engineering excellence since its completion in 1897.


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Summary

This masonry dam, standing at a height of 30 feet and stretching 865 feet in length, serves as a crucial water supply facility for the area. With a maximum storage capacity of 1,734 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 1,177 acre-feet, the dam plays a vital role in managing the water resources of the region.

The dam, situated on Fall Brook, is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and structural integrity. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam has been assessed as satisfactory in condition, with the last inspection conducted in October 2020. The surrounding area, covering 134 acres, benefits from the water management and flood control provided by this historic structure.

As a key component of the local government's water infrastructure, Mount Higby Reservoir Dam not only safeguards the water supply but also contributes to the environmental sustainability of the region. With its rich history, impressive dimensions, and crucial role in water resource management, this dam is a site of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the intersection of engineering, nature, and water conservation.

Year Completed

1897

Dam Length

865

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

FALL BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

134

Drainage Area

1.44

Nid Storage

1734

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

30
       
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.