Shenipsit Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Shenipsit Lake Dam, located in Rockville, Connecticut, stands as a vital structure managed by a public utility for water supply purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1903, this masonry dam boasts a height of 27 feet and a length of 214 feet, with a storage capacity of 8,700 acre-feet. Situated on the Hockanum River, the dam plays a crucial role in providing water to the region, with a maximum discharge capacity of 2,600 cubic feet per second.

Despite its age, Shenipsit Lake Dam has been well-maintained, with regular inspections ensuring its structural integrity. With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment, the dam is equipped with a 48-foot uncontrolled spillway and a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam's location in Tolland County makes it a key component of the region's water resource infrastructure, highlighting the importance of its continued upkeep and management for both water supply and climate resilience.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Shenipsit Lake Dam serves as a fascinating example of historic infrastructure meeting modern-day needs. With its significant storage capacity and strategic location on the Hockanum River, this masonry dam not only provides essential water supply but also presents a unique blend of engineering excellence and environmental stewardship. As efforts continue to ensure the dam's safety and functionality, it stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and natural resource management in the face of changing climate dynamics.

Year Completed

1903

Dam Length

214

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

HOCKANUM RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

685

Drainage Area

16.5

Nid Storage

8700

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

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.