Ellis Flood Control Site #2 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Ellis Flood Control Site #2, also known as Ellis Reservoir Site #2, is a state-owned earth dam located in Tolland, Connecticut.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1960, this dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Ellis Brook. Standing at a height of 38 feet and stretching 425 feet in length, this dam provides a maximum storage capacity of 824 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 46 acres.
Managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), Ellis Flood Control Site #2 is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its structural integrity and proper operation. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 12 feet and is classified as having a high hazard potential with a fair condition assessment as of the last inspection in April 2015. Despite its moderate risk rating, the dam serves as a crucial infrastructure for flood protection in the region, safeguarding local communities from potential inundation events.
Located in West Stafford and part of the New England District, Ellis Flood Control Site #2 plays a vital role in mitigating flood risks and protecting downstream areas from potential flooding. With its earth dam construction and stone core, this facility represents a key component of the region's water resource management infrastructure. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the importance of flood control structures like Ellis Flood Control Site #2 is essential for promoting water safety and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
425 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
ELLIS BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
46 |
Drainage Area |
1.5 |
Nid Storage |
824 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Ellis Flood Control Site #2
Center Field Park
Powder Hollow Park
Talcott Park
Broad Brook Millpond
East Windsor Park