Scovill Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Scovill Reservoir Dam, also known as Scovill Aka Woodtick Reservoir, is a masonry dam located in the picturesque city of Wolcott, Waterbury, in Connecticut.
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Summary
Completed in 1917, this historic structure serves primarily for recreation purposes, with a normal storage capacity of 1300 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 1800 acre-feet. Situated on the Mad River, the dam stands at a height of 32 feet and stretches 280 feet in length, creating a surface area of 138 acres for water enthusiasts to enjoy.
Managed by local government authorities and regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), Scovill Reservoir Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its design and location. Despite this, the dam's condition was assessed as satisfactory during the last inspection in December 2019, with a regular inspection frequency of every two years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) was last reviewed in August 2014, indicating a commitment to preparedness and risk management for potential emergencies.
With its rich history, scenic location, and vital role in providing recreational opportunities to the community, Scovill Reservoir Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience. As a significant landmark in New Haven County, Connecticut, this dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between harnessing the power of water for human benefit and ensuring the safety and well-being of local residents and visitors alike.
Year Completed |
1917 |
Dam Length |
280 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
MAD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
138 |
Drainage Area |
8.54 |
Nid Storage |
1800 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Quinnipiac River At Southington
|
16cfs |
Naugatuck River At Thomaston
|
90cfs |
Nonewaug River At Minortown
|
8cfs |
Naugatuck River At Beacon Falls
|
258cfs |
Quinnipiac River At Wallingford
|
147cfs |
Mill R Nr Hamden
|
20cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
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