Lake Dawson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Dawson Dam, located in Woodbridge, Connecticut, is a crucial structure managed by a public utility for water supply purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1890, this concrete dam stands at a height of 50 feet and spans a length of 1000 feet, with a storage capacity of 1540 acre-feet. Situated on the West River, it serves as a vital resource for the surrounding area, ensuring water availability for various uses.

With a high hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of November 2019, Lake Dawson Dam is regularly inspected and regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP). Despite its age, the dam continues to play a significant role in water management, with a maximum discharge capacity of 9900 cubic feet per second and an uncontrolled spillway width of 110 feet. The dam's risk assessment categorizes it as moderate, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management measures to ensure its continued safe operation.

Lake Dawson Dam's historical significance and functional importance make it a noteworthy structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As a key component of the state's water supply infrastructure, its maintenance and regulation are critical in safeguarding the surrounding community against potential hazards and ensuring sustainable water management practices for the future.

Year Completed

1890

Dam Length

1000

Dam Height

50

River Or Stream

WEST RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

76

Drainage Area

13.4

Nid Storage

1540

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

50
       
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.