Lower Scovill Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Lower Scovill Reservoir Dam, also known as Cornelias Pond Dam, is a significant earth dam located in Waterbury, Connecticut.


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Summary

Built in 1917, this dam serves primarily for recreation purposes and stands at a height of 15 feet with a length of 600 feet. It holds a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 5 acres, drawing water from the Mad River.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), the Lower Scovill Reservoir Dam poses a high hazard potential but has been assessed to be in fair condition as of December 2019. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 132 feet and outlet gates controlled by valves. In case of emergencies, the dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status is unspecified, with the last revision dating back to August 2014.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Lower Scovill Reservoir Dam offers a glimpse into the history of water management and recreational infrastructure in the region. With a moderate risk assessment rating and regular inspections, this dam remains a vital component of the local water system, providing essential storage and flood control measures along the Mad River. As efforts continue to enhance dam safety and emergency preparedness, the Lower Scovill Reservoir Dam stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to manage and protect our water resources in a sustainable manner.

Year Completed

1917

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

MAD RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Drainage Area

8.6

Nid Storage

50

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.