Pattaconk Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Pattaconk Reservoir Dam, located in Chester, Connecticut, is a masonry dam completed in 1932 with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 23 feet and spans a length of 416 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 824 acre-feet and a surface area of 55.5 acres. The dam regulates the flow of Pattaconk Brook and provides critical water resources for the surrounding area.

Managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), the Pattaconk Reservoir Dam is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and public safety. The dam has a high hazard potential and is classified as being in fair condition as of the last assessment in October 2020. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve as a valuable resource for water supply, flood control, and recreational activities in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will be fascinated by the history and engineering of the Pattaconk Reservoir Dam, which has been a vital asset to the community for nearly a century. As a state-regulated structure with a focus on recreation, the dam exemplifies the importance of maintaining infrastructure to support both human needs and environmental sustainability. Its location along Pattaconk Brook in Middlesex County, Connecticut, offers a picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy nature while appreciating the role of dams in water management and conservation.

Year Completed

1932

Dam Length

416

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

PATTACONK BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

55.5

Drainage Area

1.9

Nid Storage

824

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

23
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds