Upper Guilford Lakes Dam, located in Guilford, Connecticut, stands as a testament to engineering excellence with its masonry construction completed in 1929.
Wind
Humidity
The dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a tranquil setting for visitors to enjoy the Upper Guilford Lake. With a height of 12 feet and a storage capacity of 83 acre-feet, the dam ensures the surrounding area benefits from flood protection and water supply management.
Managed by a private owner and regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), Upper Guilford Lakes Dam has a fair condition assessment as of January 2017. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's maintenance and inspection protocols are in place to ensure public safety. The dam's spillway, with a width of 30 feet, can handle a maximum discharge of 630 cubic feet per second, showcasing its robust design to withstand natural forces.
Surrounded by the picturesque East River and covering a drainage area of 10.4 square miles, Upper Guilford Lakes Dam is a vital component of the local ecosystem. Its presence not only contributes to water resource management but also adds to the recreational landscape of the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the proper upkeep and monitoring of dams like Upper Guilford Lakes Dam are essential for sustainable water management practices.
Year Completed |
1929 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
EAST RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
10 |
Drainage Area |
10.4 |
Nid Storage |
83 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
12 |
Indian River Near Clinton
|
6cfs |
Quinnipiac River At Wallingford
|
147cfs |
Coginchaug River At Middlefield
|
60cfs |
Mill R Nr Hamden
|
20cfs |
Connecticut R At Middle Haddam
|
14900cfs |
East Branch Eightmile River Near North Lyme
|
29cfs |