Merimere Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Merimere Reservoir Dam, located in Kensington, Connecticut, is a vital structure managed by the local government to regulate the flow of the Mattabessett River and provide water supply for the surrounding area.
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Summary
Completed in 1870, this earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet and spans 900 feet, with a storage capacity of 1220 acre-feet and a surface area of 59 acres. It is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 475 cubic feet per second through an uncontrolled spillway that is 42 feet wide.
The dam is classified as having a significant hazard potential, but its condition assessment is rated as satisfactory as of the last inspection in October 2017. While the risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level, the dam meets regulatory guidelines and is inspected every 5 years to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The Merimere Reservoir Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, highlighting the importance of maintaining infrastructure to support both environmental and human needs in the face of climate variability and increasing demands on water resources.
As a key component of the local water supply infrastructure, the Merimere Reservoir Dam serves as a critical resource for the community and underscores the importance of effective dam management and maintenance in ensuring water security for the region. With its historical significance dating back to the 19th century and its continued relevance in contemporary water management practices, this dam exemplifies the intersection of engineering, environmental conservation, and climate resilience in safeguarding water resources for present and future generations.
Year Completed |
1870 |
Dam Length |
900 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
MATTABESSETT RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
59 |
Drainage Area |
1.2 |
Nid Storage |
1220 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Quinnipiac River At Southington
|
16cfs |
Coginchaug River At Middlefield
|
60cfs |
Quinnipiac River At Wallingford
|
147cfs |
Mill R Nr Hamden
|
20cfs |
Farmington River At Unionville
|
422cfs |
Connecticut R At Middle Haddam
|
14900cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
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