Factory Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Georgetown, Connecticut, Factory Pond Dam is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1874, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 23.5 feet and has a length of 175 feet, creating a surface area of 16.5 acres and a drainage area of 11.7 square miles. The dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 2500 cubic feet per second and a storage capacity of 192 acre-feet.

Despite its age, Factory Pond Dam has been deemed to have a high hazard potential with a fair condition assessment. The dam is state-regulated and falls under the jurisdiction of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), with regular inspections conducted to ensure its safety and integrity. The last inspection took place in June 2015, with a scheduled frequency of every two years.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Factory Pond Dam presents an intriguing case study of a historic structure that continues to play a vital role in the local ecosystem. With its location on the Norwalk River and proximity to the city of Redding, the dam serves as a recreational hub while also posing potential risks that require careful monitoring and management. As efforts to mitigate hazards and maintain the dam's functionality continue, Factory Pond Dam remains a focal point for conservation and sustainable water resource practices in the region.

Year Completed

1874

Dam Length

175

Dam Height

23.5

River Or Stream

NORWALK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16.5

Drainage Area

11.7

Nid Storage

192

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

24
       
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.