Wasel Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Kensington, Connecticut, the Wasel Reservoir Dam, also known as Panther Swamp, was completed in 1966 and serves as a vital water supply structure for the region.


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Summary

This earth and stone dam stands at a height of 80 feet and has a length of 450 feet, with a storage capacity of 3,558 acre-feet. The reservoir has a normal storage capacity of 2,700 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 103 acres and draining an area of 0.38 square miles.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), the Wasel Reservoir Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in fair condition. With a spillway type of "Uncontrolled" and equipped with slide gates for outlet control, the dam is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 80 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam undergoes regular inspections and has an emergency action plan in place to ensure the safety of surrounding communities in case of a potential breach.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the engineering and design of the Wasel Reservoir Dam, which plays a crucial role in providing water supply to the Hartford County area. The dam's strategic location on a tributary to Willow Brook ensures reliable water storage and distribution, contributing to the region's overall water management strategy. With a focus on safety and regulatory compliance, the dam continues to be a key infrastructure asset for the community, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

80

River Or Stream

TRIB TO WILLOW BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

103

Drainage Area

0.38

Nid Storage

3558

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

80
       
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.