Sandy Hook Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sandy Hook is a gravity dam located on the Pootatuck River in Fairfield, Connecticut, with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

Built in 1905, this dam stands at a height of 35 feet and has a length of 130 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and serving a drainage area of 25 square miles. The dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 100 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 2,364 cubic feet per second.

Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, Sandy Hook has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) oversees the operation, inspection, and maintenance of the dam, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations. While the condition assessment of the dam is not currently available, regular inspections are conducted every three years to monitor its structural integrity and performance.

Overall, Sandy Hook serves as a vital infrastructure for hydroelectric power generation in the region, contributing to the renewable energy sector. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance efforts, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate adaptation initiatives, highlighting the intersection of sustainable development and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1905

Dam Length

130

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

Pootatuck River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

4

Drainage Area

25

Nid Storage

60

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

35
       
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.