Risdon Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Risdon Pond Dam, located in Naugatuck, Connecticut, is a historic structure completed in 1890 with a primary purpose of water supply.


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Summary

This masonry dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a storage capacity of 11 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 8.5 acre-feet. Situated on the Hopeville Pond Brook, it serves as a vital resource for the surrounding area, contributing to water management and supply needs.

Despite its age, Risdon Pond Dam has been maintained in fair condition, with a high hazard potential due to its proximity to populated areas. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 28 feet and an outlet gate for water release. While the last inspection dates back to 1986, the dam is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), ensuring that it meets state standards for safety and operation.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate Risdon Pond Dam for its historical significance and role in water supply management. With its moderate risk assessment and high hazard potential, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and regulating critical infrastructure to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region.

Year Completed

1890

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

HOPEVILLE POND BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

1

Drainage Area

1.27

Nid Storage

11

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

27
       
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.