Barnes Reservoir Dike, located in Chesterfield, Connecticut, is a vital earth dam constructed in 1902 primarily for water supply purposes.
Wind
Humidity
The reservoir, situated on the Latimer Brook, has a capacity to store 757 acre-feet of water, with a normal storage level of 522 acre-feet across its 47-acre surface area. The dam stands at a height of 10 feet and spans 300 feet in length, serving as a critical component of the water infrastructure in the region.
Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam's condition has been assessed as poor, indicating a need for maintenance and potential rehabilitation. The last inspection in October 2019 highlighted this concern, prompting a five-year inspection frequency to monitor its structural integrity closely. As a state-regulated structure under the supervision of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), Barnes Reservoir Dike plays a pivotal role in ensuring a reliable and sustainable water supply for the residents of New London County.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the importance of maintaining and upgrading dams like Barnes Reservoir Dike becomes increasingly crucial. With its historical significance dating back over a century, the dam represents a blend of engineering ingenuity and environmental stewardship, embodying the intersection of water management, public safety, and climate resilience in the face of evolving challenges.
Year Completed |
1902 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
LATIMER BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
47 |
Drainage Area |
2.84 |
Nid Storage |
757 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
10 |
Eightmile R At North Plain
|
24cfs |
East Branch Eightmile River Near North Lyme
|
29cfs |
Yantic River At Yantic
|
147cfs |
Shetucket River At Taftville
|
885cfs |
Salmon River Near East Hampton
|
119cfs |
Quinebaug River At Jewett City
|
1380cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Laurel Lock Camp
|
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Youth Site 2
|
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Youth Site 1
|