Paper Goods Pond Dam, located in Kensington, Connecticut, is a masonry dam completed in 1920 with a primary purpose of recreation.
Wind
Humidity
The dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet, providing a surface area of 14.5 acres for recreational activities. Situated on the Mattabesset River, the dam is owned and regulated by the local government and falls under the jurisdiction of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP).
Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in June 2020. With a spillway width of 61 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 1190 cubic feet per second, the dam is equipped to manage excess water flow effectively. Additionally, the dam has undergone periodic inspections every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety for downstream communities. While there are no associated structures or outlet gates, the dam remains a key recreational site for residents and visitors in the area.
Paper Goods Pond Dam serves as a vital piece of infrastructure for both water resource management and recreational purposes in the region. Its historical significance, combined with its functionality, highlights the importance of proper maintenance and oversight to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all who benefit from its presence along the Mattabesset River.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
73 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
MATTABESSET RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
14.5 |
Drainage Area |
9.2 |
Nid Storage |
150 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
30 |
Quinnipiac River At Southington
|
16cfs |
Coginchaug River At Middlefield
|
60cfs |
Farmington River At Unionville
|
422cfs |
North Branch Park R At Hartford
|
26cfs |
Quinnipiac River At Wallingford
|
147cfs |
Connecticut R At Middle Haddam
|
14900cfs |