Deer Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Deer Lake Dam, located in Killingworth, Connecticut, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1920, this masonry dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a length of 150 feet, providing a storage capacity of 202 acre-feet. The dam controls the flow of Chatfield Hollow Brook, with a maximum discharge capacity of 530 cubic feet per second.

The dam is considered to have a significant hazard potential, although its condition has not been officially assessed. Despite being state-regulated and inspected, there is no information available regarding emergency action plans or risk management measures in place. With a spillway width of 70 feet and a surface area of 45 acres, Deer Lake Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area and ensuring the safety of the surrounding communities.

As a point of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Deer Lake Dam offers a glimpse into the intricate balance between human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. Its location in Middlesex County, Connecticut, and its association with the New England District of the US Army Corps of Engineers make it a valuable site for studying the impact of dams on local hydrology and wildlife habitats.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

CHATFIELD HOLLOW BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

45

Drainage Area

10.5

Nid Storage

202

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

12
       
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.