Moodus Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Moodus Reservoir Dam, located in East Haddam, Connecticut, is a state-regulated earth dam built in 1882 primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 17.5 feet and has a length of 275 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 4,293 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 451 acres. The dam is situated on the Moodus River and is owned by the state, with regulatory oversight provided by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP).

With a significant hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, the Moodus Reservoir Dam presents a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in dam safety and management. The dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 2,182 cubic feet per second and a drainage area of 10.5 square miles, making it crucial to monitor its structural integrity and ensure proper maintenance. Despite not having an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) updated recently, the dam has emergency contacts in place and has undergone inspections with a frequency of 5 years.

For those intrigued by the historical significance and environmental impact of dam infrastructure, the Moodus Reservoir Dam serves as a prime example of how human-made structures can shape water resources and recreational opportunities in a region. The dam's association with the Moodus River and its role in providing recreational activities highlight the delicate balance between human intervention and natural ecosystems. As discussions around climate change and water management continue to evolve, understanding the complexities of dams like Moodus Reservoir Dam becomes vital in ensuring sustainable water resource management practices for the future.

Year Completed

1882

Dam Length

275

Dam Height

17.5

River Or Stream

MOODUS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

451

Drainage Area

10.5

Nid Storage

4293

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

18
       
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.