Comstock Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Comstock Pond Dam, located in Ivoryton, Connecticut, is a local government-owned structure built in 1874 for regulating the flow of Falls River.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam stands at a height of 7 feet and spans 540 feet, with a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet and a surface area of 5.5 acres. The dam's primary purpose is classified as 'Other', serving various functions related to water resource management in the area.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Comstock Pond Dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP). The dam's spillway, with a width of 25 feet, is of the uncontrolled type, capable of accommodating a maximum discharge of 186 cubic feet per second. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam remains in a 'Not Rated' condition, suggesting a need for further evaluation and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Comstock Pond Dam serves as a vital infrastructure component in managing water flow and storage in the region. With its historical significance dating back to the 19th century, the dam represents a tangible connection to the area's past while also playing a crucial role in supporting present-day water management efforts. As discussions around climate change and water resource sustainability continue to evolve, the maintenance and upkeep of structures like Comstock Pond Dam will be essential in ensuring the resilience of local ecosystems and communities in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1874

Dam Length

540

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

FALLS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.5

Drainage Area

0.97

Nid Storage

57

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

7
       
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

Location Reservations Toilets
Comstock Pond DamCamp Bethel Preview Camp Bethel
Comstock Pond DamYouth Site 2 Preview Youth Site 2
Comstock Pond DamYouth Site 1 Preview Youth Site 1