Hitchcock Lake Central Ave Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hitchcock Lake Central Ave Dam, also known simply as Hitchcock Lake, is a vital structure located in Wolcott, Connecticut.


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Summary

Built in 1868, this dam plays a crucial role in regulating the water levels of the North Lake Hitchcock Lake, serving as a key landmark in the New Haven County area. With a height of 8 feet and a length of 450 feet, this Uncontrolled spillway type dam presents a high hazard potential but is currently rated as satisfactory in its condition assessment as of December 2019.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), the Hitchcock Lake Central Ave Dam undergoes regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam features a valve outlet gate system and is associated with two other structures in the area. While its primary purpose and specific dam type are not explicitly defined, the dam serves as a critical component in the water resource infrastructure of the region, contributing to flood control and water storage capabilities.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate management will find Hitchcock Lake Central Ave Dam to be an intriguing structure with historical significance and practical importance. Positioned in a picturesque setting, this dam stands as a testament to the engineering feats of the past and the ongoing efforts to maintain the integrity and safety of water-related structures. With its moderate risk assessment and satisfactory condition, Hitchcock Lake Central Ave Dam represents a balance between the potential hazards of managing water resources and the necessity of efficient infrastructure in safeguarding communities against environmental threats.

Year Completed

1868

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

NORTH LAKE HITCHCOCK LAKE

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

8
       
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.