Cedar Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cedar Lake Dam, also known as Cedar Swamp Pond, is a private dam located in Wolcott, Connecticut, along the Mad River.


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Summary

Completed in 1869, this concrete dam stands at a height of 17 feet and has a length of 315 feet. With a storage capacity of 1700 acre-feet and a surface area of 143 acres, Cedar Lake Dam primarily serves a recreational purpose, offering opportunities for water-based activities in the region.

The dam is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. While it has a significant hazard potential, the condition assessment in November 2019 deemed it as satisfactory. In case of emergencies, an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) may be prepared, although details on its existence and compliance with guidelines are not provided in the data.

Despite the moderate risk associated with the dam, the Cedar Lake Dam remains a vital structure for water resource management and recreation in the area. Its historical significance and contributions to the local ecosystem make it a key focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the region's hydrological infrastructure.

Year Completed

1869

Dam Length

315

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

MAD RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

143

Drainage Area

17.4

Nid Storage

1700

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

17
       
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.