Rocky River Canal Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Rocky River Canal Dike in New Milford, Connecticut, is a crucial structure owned by a public utility and overseen by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.


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Summary

Built in 1902 for hydroelectric purposes, this dam spans 2500 feet and has a height of 72 feet, providing storage of up to 172,000 acre-feet of water. The dam sits on the Rocky River and serves both hydroelectric power generation and recreational purposes, with a high hazard potential due to its age and size.

Despite its age, the Rocky River Canal Dike has not been modified in recent years and its condition assessment is currently marked as "Not Available." With a high risk level of 2, emergency action plans have not been updated recently, raising concerns about preparedness for potential hazards. The dam's inspection frequency is set at once per year, indicating the necessity for regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of this vital water resource structure in Litchfield County.

Overall, the Rocky River Canal Dike stands as a historic landmark in Connecticut, providing essential hydroelectric power and recreational opportunities, while also posing potential risks due to its age and high hazard potential. With proper oversight and maintenance, this dam can continue to serve its dual purposes effectively, safeguarding the surrounding environment and communities from the impacts of water resource management and climate change.

Year Completed

1902

Dam Length

2500

Dam Height

72

River Or Stream

Rocky River

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

5600

Drainage Area

40.4

Nid Storage

172000

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

72
       
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.