Fairy Lake Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Salem, Connecticut, Fairy Lake Dike is a privately owned structure designed to regulate water levels and protect the surrounding area from potential flooding.


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Summary

Completed in 1957, this dam stands at a height of 10 feet and spans 300 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 780 acre-feet. With a spillway width of 12 feet and uncontrolled outlet gates, Fairy Lake Dike plays a crucial role in managing water flow and ensuring the safety of the community.

The dam's condition assessment in 2019 rated it as fair, with a significant hazard potential due to its location and purpose. While the risk assessment categorized it as moderate, efforts are in place to enhance emergency preparedness and response, although specific details on emergency action plans and risk management measures are currently unavailable. Joe Courtney, the Democratic representative for the New England District, oversees this structure, underscoring the importance of maintaining and monitoring Fairy Lake Dike to safeguard water resources and mitigate climate-related risks in the region.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize Fairy Lake Dike's role in water management and flood control efforts in New London, Connecticut. By understanding its design, purpose, and maintenance challenges, we can appreciate the complex interplay between infrastructure, environmental risks, and community resilience. As we continue to advocate for sustainable water practices and climate adaptation strategies, keeping an eye on structures like Fairy Lake Dike will be crucial in ensuring the long-term safety and well-being of our communities.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

10

Surface Area

88.7

Drainage Area

0.86

Nid Storage

780

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

10
       
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.