Richards Corner Compensating Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Located in New Hartford, Connecticut, the Richards Corner Compensating Dam serves as a vital water supply structure for the region.


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Summary

Built in 1920, this earth dam stands at 75 feet tall and stretches 950 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 13,470 acre-feet and a surface area of 455 acres. The dam plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of the East Branch Farmington River, with a drainage area of 61.2 square miles.

Managed by a public utility, this dam is state-regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, it is assessed to be in fair condition as of the latest inspection in September 2020. The dam's primary purpose of water supply underscores its importance in providing essential water resources to the community while also posing challenges in terms of potential risks and management measures.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Richards Corner Compensating Dam stands as a symbol of sustainable water management in Connecticut. Its historical significance, engineering design, and role in water supply make it a noteworthy site for those interested in the intersection of water resources, infrastructure, and environmental conservation. The dam's presence on the East Branch Farmington River adds to its appeal as a focal point for understanding the complex dynamics of water systems and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

950

Dam Height

75

River Or Stream

E BR FARMINGTON R

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

455

Drainage Area

61.2

Nid Storage

13470

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

75
       
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.