Freshwater Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Freshwater Pond Dam, located in Enfield, Connecticut, is a picturesque masonry dam built in 1900 primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 20 feet and a length of 270 feet, this dam holds back the waters of Freshwater Brook, creating a surface area of 5 acres and a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam is still in use and receives regular inspections from the state regulatory agency, DEEP, due to its high hazard potential and poor condition assessment.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 88 feet, capable of discharging up to 2000 cubic feet per second. The surrounding area has a drainage area of 11.1 square miles, making it an important water resource for the region. Although the dam is in need of maintenance and repair, it continues to serve as a popular recreational spot for locals and visitors alike. With its historical significance and environmental importance, Freshwater Pond Dam stands as a reminder of the intersection between human infrastructure and natural ecosystems in the face of climate change and water resource management challenges.

As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, it is crucial to monitor the condition of dams like Freshwater Pond Dam to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the integrity of our natural water systems. By understanding the risks and management measures associated with dams, we can work towards sustainable solutions that balance the need for recreation with the need for environmental stewardship. Freshwater Pond Dam serves as a valuable case study in the ongoing dialogue surrounding dam safety, climate resilience, and the preservation of freshwater resources in a changing world.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

FRESHWATER BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

5

Drainage Area

11.1

Nid Storage

54

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

20
       
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.