Starr Mill Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Starr Mill Pond in Middletown, Connecticut, is a picturesque water resource nestled on the Coginchaug River, offering a tranquil retreat for recreational enthusiasts.


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Summary

This privately owned masonry dam, constructed in 1875, stands at a height of 10 feet and spans 120 feet in length, creating a surface area of 10.1 acres and a storage capacity of 75 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 36.7 square miles and a maximum discharge of 5,855 cubic feet per second, this dam serves as a vital component in managing water resources in the region.

Despite its age, Starr Mill Pond is in fair condition as of the last inspection in July 2019, with a significant hazard potential due to its location. The dam has a history of meeting regulatory standards, with the State of Connecticut overseeing its permitting, inspection, and enforcement. While the dam's emergency preparedness details are not clearly defined, its operation for over a century highlights its resilience and importance in maintaining water levels for recreational use and environmental stability. Overall, Starr Mill Pond stands as a historic and functional water resource, contributing to the beauty and utility of the surrounding landscape for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

Year Completed

1875

Dam Length

120

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

COGINCHAUG RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

10.1

Drainage Area

36.7

Nid Storage

75

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

10
       
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.