Morris Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Morris Reservoir Dam, located in Morris, Connecticut, serves as a crucial water supply facility managed by a public utility.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 88 feet and has a length of 810 feet, providing a storage capacity of 4590 acre-feet for the surrounding area. The reservoir created by the dam covers a surface area of 135 acres and is fed by Branch Brook, catering to the water needs of the region.

Constructed with a concrete core in a multi-arch design, Morris Reservoir Dam is regulated and inspected by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) to ensure its structural integrity and operational safety. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 200 feet, maintaining a high hazard potential due to its size and the volume of water it holds. Despite this, the dam is currently assessed as being in satisfactory condition, with a moderate risk rating, indicating effective risk management measures in place.

As a critical infrastructure for water supply in Litchfield County, Morris Reservoir Dam plays a vital role in ensuring water security for the region. With its efficient operational protocols and adherence to regulatory standards, the dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in the face of climate challenges. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Morris Reservoir Dam represents a blend of engineering excellence, environmental stewardship, and proactive risk management in safeguarding precious water resources for the community.

Dam Length

810

Dam Height

88

River Or Stream

BRANCH BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

135

Drainage Area

8.49

Nid Storage

4590

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

88
       
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.