Menunkatuck Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Menunkatuck Reservoir Dam, located in North Guilford, Connecticut, stands as a crucial piece of infrastructure for water supply in the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1929, this concrete dam boasts a height of 46 feet and a storage capacity of 629 acre-feet, serving as a vital resource for the surrounding community. The dam, situated on Branch Brook, is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.

With a spillway width of 42 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 1644 cubic feet per second, Menunkatuck Reservoir Dam is equipped to manage high hazard potential. Despite its age, the dam has been assessed as satisfactory in condition, with a moderate risk rating. The dam's emergency action plan is regularly updated and meets guidelines, providing a reassuring level of preparedness for any potential emergencies. Overall, Menunkatuck Reservoir Dam serves as a critical water resource for the community, embodying a balance of functionality, safety, and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1929

Dam Length

248

Dam Height

46

River Or Stream

BRANCH BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

39.5

Drainage Area

3.31

Nid Storage

629

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

46
       
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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.