Chase Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Nestled in Killingly, Connecticut, the Chase Reservoir Dam stands as a testament to early engineering prowess, having been completed in 1870.


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Summary

Despite its age, this Earth dam remains a vital water resource, primarily used for recreation purposes. With a height of 13 feet and a length of 700 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 240 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 1.29 square miles.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), the dam's condition is assessed as fair with a significant hazard potential. The spillway, categorized as uncontrolled, features a width of 30 feet, ensuring the safe discharge of excess water. Although the dam has undergone modifications over the years, it continues to be a focal point for water enthusiasts and climate advocates alike, offering a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities.

As climate change continues to impact water resources worldwide, the Chase Reservoir Dam serves as a crucial infrastructure for managing water levels and ensuring public safety. With regular inspections and a moderate risk assessment rating, efforts are underway to enhance the dam's risk management measures. The dam's historical significance, combined with its practical utility, underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1870

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

WHETSTONE BROOK TRIBUTARY

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

60

Drainage Area

1.29

Nid Storage

240

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

13
       
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.