Chestnut Hill Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 23, 2025

The Chestnut Hill Reservoir Dam, located in Wolcott, Connecticut, is a vital structure used for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1919, this earth dam stands at a height of 37 feet and spans 788 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 3,100 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the Old Tannery Brook and serves as a key feature in the local landscape, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and leisure.

Despite its fair condition assessment, the Chestnut Hill Reservoir Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its age and the potential risks associated with dam failure. Regular inspections are conducted to ensure the dam's integrity and safety, with the last assessment taking place in December 2019. The dam is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and meets state permitting and enforcement requirements, underscoring the commitment to maintaining its structural soundness and public safety.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Chestnut Hill Reservoir Dam presents a unique blend of historical significance and environmental stewardship. As a primary source of recreation in the area, the dam exemplifies the balance between human enjoyment and the responsible management of water resources. Its location within the New Haven County, surrounded by natural beauty and wildlife, underscores the importance of preserving and protecting our water infrastructure for future generations to come.

Year Completed

1919

Dam Length

788

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

OLD TANNERY BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

84

Drainage Area

1.56

Nid Storage

3100

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

37
       
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.