New Milford Reservoir #4 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

New Milford Reservoir #4 Dam, located in New Milford, Connecticut, is a significant earth dam completed in the year 1900 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 17 feet and with a length of 325 feet, the dam holds a normal storage capacity of 84 acre-feet and has a surface area of 12 acres. It is situated on the TOWN FARM BROOK, contributing to a drainage area of 0.78 square miles.

Despite its historical significance and recreational value, the dam's condition assessment in 2014 rated it as poor, with a significant hazard potential. The inspection frequency is set at 5 years, and the last inspection took place in October 2014. The dam's spillway width is 25 feet, and it has a maximum discharge capacity of 510 cubic feet per second. While the dam is state-regulated and has state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, there are concerns about its maintenance and overall safety.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the New Milford Reservoir #4 Dam can appreciate its role in providing recreational opportunities in the region. However, the dam's poor condition assessment and significant hazard potential highlight the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure safety and functionality. With ongoing concerns about its structural integrity, the dam serves as a reminder of the need for proper management and oversight of critical water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

325

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

TOWN FARM BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

0.78

Nid Storage

84

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

17
       
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.