Pratt Read Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pratt Read Dam, also known as Pratt Read Reservoir, is a historic masonry dam located in Deep River, Connecticut.


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Summary

Completed in 1860, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene setting for visitors to enjoy the surrounding area. With a height of 11 feet and a length of 163 feet, the dam creates a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 88 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 15 acres.

Managed by a private owner, Pratt Read Dam is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP). The dam's condition assessment as of August 2020 was deemed satisfactory, with a significant hazard potential. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management for the Deep River area, with a drainage area of 5.01 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 981 cubic feet per second.

Visitors to Pratt Read Dam can appreciate the historical significance of this structure while enjoying the recreational opportunities it provides. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 72 feet, adds to the scenic beauty of the area. With a moderate risk assessment rating, ongoing inspections and maintenance ensure the safety and integrity of the dam for both recreational users and the local community.

Year Completed

1860

Dam Length

163

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

DEEP RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

15

Drainage Area

5.01

Nid Storage

88

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

11
       
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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