Upper Mill Pond Dam, located in Middletown, Connecticut, is a private dam used primarily for recreation purposes on Sumner Brook.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1860, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and spans 220 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 36 acre-feet. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 80 feet, and it has a significant hazard potential with a fair condition assessment as of November 2019.
The dam is state-regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), with permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures in place. The surrounding area has a drainage area of 7.6 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 250 cubic feet per second. Despite being privately owned, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating and is subject to regular inspections every two years to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Upper Mill Pond Dam offers a glimpse into the historical and recreational significance of dam infrastructure in Connecticut. Its role in providing water storage and recreational opportunities, as well as its regulation by state agencies, highlights the importance of proper management and maintenance of these vital structures in the face of changing climate conditions and increasing water resource demands.
Year Completed |
1860 |
Dam Length |
220 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
SUMNER BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Drainage Area |
7.6 |
Nid Storage |
36 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
Coginchaug River At Middlefield
|
60cfs |
Connecticut R At Middle Haddam
|
14900cfs |
Salmon River Near East Hampton
|
119cfs |
Quinnipiac River At Wallingford
|
147cfs |
Quinnipiac River At Southington
|
16cfs |
Mill R Nr Hamden
|
20cfs |