Foster Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Foster Pond Dam, located in Killingworth, Connecticut, serves as a significant recreational resource in the region.


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Summary

Built in 1900, this masonry dam stands at a height of 16.5 feet and spans a length of 246 feet, creating a storage capacity of 187 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the Chatfield Hollow Brook and offers a serene surface area of 34 acres for visitors to enjoy various water-based activities.

Despite its age, the dam is in fair condition as per the last assessment in 2016, with a significant hazard potential due to its uncontrolled spillway type. The dam's maximum discharge capacity is recorded at 1842 cubic feet per second, emphasizing the need for continued inspections and maintenance to ensure public safety. With a moderate risk assessment level of 3, the dam's regulatory oversight by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection is crucial in managing any potential risks associated with its operation. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in the area can appreciate the historical and recreational significance of Foster Pond Dam while advocating for its continued maintenance and safety measures.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

246

Dam Height

16.5

River Or Stream

CHATFIELD HOLLOW BK

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

34

Drainage Area

9.42

Nid Storage

187

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

17
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.