Tower Hill Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tower Hill Lake Dam, located in Deep River, Connecticut, stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering excellence.


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Summary

Completed in 1920, this masonry dam not only serves as a recreational hotspot but also plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. With a height of 20 feet and a storage capacity of 285 acre-feet, the dam regulates the flow of the Falls River Tributary, covering a surface area of 30 acres.

Managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), Tower Hill Lake Dam is subject to regular state inspections, ensuring its structural integrity and safety. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's purpose extends beyond recreation to include flood control and water supply management. While its condition assessment remains unrated, the dam continues to be a vital component of the local ecosystem and a point of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

With a spillway width of 15 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 258 cubic feet per second, Tower Hill Lake Dam exemplifies a harmonious blend of historical significance and modern functionality. As efforts to monitor and manage the dam persist, its role in sustaining the surrounding environment and providing recreational opportunities remains paramount. As a symbol of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship, Tower Hill Lake Dam stands tall as a vital component of Connecticut's water resource infrastructure.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

FALLS RIVER TRIB

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

30

Drainage Area

0.83

Nid Storage

285

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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