Bushy Hill Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bushy Hill Pond Dam, also known as Bushy Hill Reservoir, is a privately owned structure located in Ivoryton, Connecticut.


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Summary

Built in 1871, this earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet and has a length of 265 feet. It serves the primary purpose of water supply, with a storage capacity of 616 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 530 acre-feet. The dam is situated on an unnamed river or stream within a drainage area of 0.67 square miles.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment in 2015, Bushy Hill Pond Dam poses a high hazard potential, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. It is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and has the necessary state permits for operation and inspection. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) was last revised in 1981, raising questions about its current relevance and effectiveness in the event of a crisis. With a maximum discharge capacity of 139 cubic feet per second and a spillway width of 20 feet, the dam's safety and management measures are crucial for mitigating risks and ensuring community safety.

Located in Middlesex County, Connecticut, Bushy Hill Pond Dam is a historic structure with significant implications for water resource management and climate resilience. As climate change continues to impact precipitation patterns and water availability, the maintenance and monitoring of such dams become increasingly vital. With its rich history, high hazard potential, and water supply importance, Bushy Hill Pond Dam serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between human infrastructure, natural resources, and climate variability in our changing world.

Year Completed

1871

Dam Length

265

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

UNNAMED

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

41

Drainage Area

0.67

Nid Storage

616

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

33
       
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

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