Hitchcock Lake College Place Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hitchcock Lake College Place Dike, located in Waterbury, Connecticut, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1868 to regulate the flow of Hitchcock Lake Brook.


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Summary

With a dam height of 4.5 feet and a length of 245 feet, this structure plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. The dam's spillway, with a width of 27 feet, is uncontrolled, posing a high hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in December 2019.

The dam is under the regulatory oversight of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement functions in place. Its association with two other structures under the same NID ID highlights its importance in the local water management system. Despite its age, Hitchcock Lake College Place Dike continues to serve its purpose effectively, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3 indicating a manageable level of risk.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hitchcock Lake College Place Dike presents a fascinating case study in the history and management of water infrastructure. Its location in the scenic New Haven County, surrounded by the beauty of Hitchcock Lake, makes it a significant landmark in the region. As efforts to maintain and upgrade aging dams become increasingly important, understanding the intricate details of structures like Hitchcock Lake College Place Dike is crucial for ensuring the sustainable management of water resources in Connecticut.

Year Completed

1868

Dam Length

245

Dam Height

4.5

River Or Stream

HITCHCOCK LAKE BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.49

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

5
       
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.