Lake Gaillard East Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Gaillard East Dike, also known as Lake Gaillard, is a crucial water resource infrastructure located in North Branford, Connecticut.


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Summary

Owned by a public utility, this dam serves the primary purpose of water supply, with a storage capacity of 53,500 acre-feet and a surface area of 1,110 acres. Completed in 1929, the earth-type dam stands at a height of 22 feet and stretches 1,680 feet in length, contributing to the regulation of a drainage area of 7.5 square miles.

This dam, regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), plays a vital role in ensuring water security for the surrounding area. With a high hazard potential but satisfactory condition assessment as of November 2019, Lake Gaillard East Dike is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and no outlet gates. In case of emergencies, the dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status and risk assessment indicate a moderate risk level, underscoring the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to uphold its safety and functionality.

Situated in the New Haven County of Connecticut and falling under the jurisdiction of the New England District, Lake Gaillard East Dike stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the infrastructure's role in providing essential water supply underscores the need for sustainable management practices and proactive risk mitigation measures to safeguard this critical resource for future generations.

Year Completed

1929

Dam Length

1680

Dam Height

22

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1110

Drainage Area

7.5

Nid Storage

53500

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

22
       
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.