Mechanicsville Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mechanicsville, also known as Acme Pond Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Thompson, Connecticut, along the French River.


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Summary

This masonry dam was completed in 1900 and serves a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation. With a height of 17.5 feet and a length of 420 feet, it has a storage capacity of 330 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 10,000 cubic feet per second.

The dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. While it is not state-regulated, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission oversees its inspections and regulatory compliance. The spillway of the dam is uncontrolled with a width of 200 feet, providing a safety measure in case of excessive water flow. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not available, highlighting the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring.

Overall, Mechanicsville Dam plays a crucial role in harnessing clean energy from the natural flow of the French River while also ensuring the safety and well-being of the surrounding community. Its historical significance, functional design, and environmental impact make it a notable landmark for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate and study.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

420

Dam Height

17.5

River Or Stream

French River

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

48

Drainage Area

112

Nid Storage

330

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.