Timber Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Timber Lake Dam in Sherman, Connecticut, is a privately owned structure built in 1957 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 14 feet and a length of 200 feet, this earth dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 11.9 acres. Situated on the Quaker Brook, it plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem, providing water storage and flood control for the surrounding area.

Despite being privately owned, Timber Lake Dam falls under state jurisdiction and is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP). The dam's hazard potential is deemed significant, with a moderate risk assessment rating. Although the condition of the dam has not been formally rated, regular inspections are carried out every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 28 feet, helps manage water flow during times of high discharge, further highlighting its importance in managing water resources in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Timber Lake Dam serves as a fascinating case study in the intersection of human intervention and natural resource management. Its presence not only facilitates recreational activities but also plays a vital role in maintaining water quality, ecosystem health, and flood protection in the Fairfield County area. As efforts to address climate change and water scarcity intensify, sustainable management of dams like Timber Lake will be essential for ensuring the long-term resilience of our water resources and ecosystems.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

QUAKER BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11.9

Drainage Area

2.75

Nid Storage

60

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

14
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds