Wataba Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wataba Lake Dam, located in Ridgefield, Connecticut, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in the year 1900, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 10 feet and stretches 190 feet in length. It has a storage capacity of 231 acre-feet, with a maximum discharge of 350 cubic feet per second.

Despite its age, Wataba Lake Dam is considered to have a significant hazard potential, although its condition has not been rated. The dam is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), with regular inspections mandated to ensure its safety. The dam lacks an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and other risk assessment measures, highlighting the need for proactive management and preparedness in the face of potential emergencies.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Wataba Lake Dam to be an intriguing structure, given its historical significance and role in providing recreational opportunities in the area. The dam's location in the picturesque Fairfield County adds to its charm, making it a point of interest for those interested in water infrastructure and conservation. As discussions around dam safety and climate resilience continue to evolve, Wataba Lake Dam presents a case study for balancing recreational benefits with the need for robust risk management practices.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

190

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

UNNAMED

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

42.2

Drainage Area

1.97

Nid Storage

231

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

10
       
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.