The Taftville Hydro Dam, also known as Shetucket River Dam #4, is a concrete structure located in Norwich, Connecticut.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1867, it serves as a hydroelectric facility along the Shetucket River, with a primary purpose of generating renewable energy. The dam stands at 30 feet in height and stretches 1120 feet in length, with a maximum discharge capacity of 26,075 cubic feet per second.
Managed by a public utility, the Taftville Hydro Dam is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP). Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in September 2020 deemed it to be satisfactory. With a drainage area of 511 square miles and a storage capacity of 1,712 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
This historic dam, overseen by local congressman Joe Courtney, underscores the intersection of water resource management and renewable energy production. With a moderate risk assessment rating, ongoing inspections, and emergency preparedness measures in place, the Taftville Hydro Dam stands as a testament to sustainable infrastructure development and the importance of climate-conscious practices in the management of water resources.
Year Completed |
1867 |
Dam Length |
1120 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
SHETUCKET RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
107 |
Drainage Area |
511 |
Nid Storage |
1712 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
30 |
Shetucket River At Taftville
|
885cfs |
Quinebaug River At Jewett City
|
1380cfs |
Yantic River At Yantic
|
147cfs |
Little River Near Hanover
|
44cfs |
Shetucket River Near Willimantic
|
777cfs |
Natchaug River At Willimantic
|
322cfs |