Wasel Reservoir Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Southington, Connecticut, the Wasel Reservoir Dike, also known as Panther Swamp, serves as a critical water supply structure for the region.


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Summary

Built in 1966, this earth dam stands at 50 feet high and stretches 1375 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 3600 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Mattabassett River and is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP).

With a spillway width of 100 feet and a hazard potential rated as high, the Wasel Reservoir Dike undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. The dam's condition was last assessed as satisfactory in November 2020, with an inspection frequency of every two years. In case of emergencies, the dam is equipped with valve outlet gates for controlled water release.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the vital role that the Wasel Reservoir Dike plays in providing water supply to the community while also managing flood risks along the Mattabassett River. As a key infrastructure managed by local government authorities, the dam's operational and regulatory aspects ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

1375

Dam Height

50

River Or Stream

MATTABASSETT RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

101

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

3600

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

50
       
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.