Messerschmidt Pond Dam in Westbrook, Connecticut, is a state-regulated dam with a primary purpose of recreation.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1890, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and spans 545 feet in length. The dam has a storage capacity of 910 acre-feet and is located on the Falls River, offering a surface area of 100 acres for recreational activities.
Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Messerschmidt Pond Dam is currently in fair condition as of the last assessment in October 2018. The dam has a spillway width of 63 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 770 cubic feet per second. While the dam is inspected every two years, there are no associated lock structures with this dam.
Enthusiasts of water resource management and climate resilience will find Messerschmidt Pond Dam to be an interesting case study in dam safety and recreational water management. With its historical significance dating back over a century and its vital role in providing recreational opportunities in the area, this dam serves as a focal point for community engagement and environmental stewardship in Westbrook, Connecticut.
Year Completed |
1890 |
Dam Length |
545 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
FALLS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
100 |
Drainage Area |
4.26 |
Nid Storage |
910 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
23 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Camp Bethel
|
||
Youth Site 2
|
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Youth Site 1
|