South Flood Control Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
The South Flood Control Dam, also known as South Branch Park River Site 3, is a key structure in the state of Connecticut designed by the USDA NRCS to mitigate flood risks in the Hartford area.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1964, this earth dam stands at a height of 30.9 feet and spans 3500 feet, providing a storage capacity of 900 acre-feet to manage excess water flow during periods of heavy rainfall. Located in West Hartford, this dam plays a critical role in flood risk reduction for the surrounding community.
Managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), the South Flood Control Dam is state-regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced to ensure its structural integrity and operational effectiveness. With a high hazard potential due to its location and purpose, this dam has been assessed as satisfactory in condition as of May 2015. Emergency action plans are in place, and regular inspections are conducted to uphold safety standards and preparedness for any potential flooding events. The dam's primary purpose remains flood risk reduction, serving as a vital infrastructure component to protect the local area from water-related emergencies.
With a history of serving the local community for over half a century, the South Flood Control Dam continues to be a key player in water resource management in Connecticut. Its strategic location, design, and functionality have proven to be effective in reducing flood risks and protecting the surrounding environment. As climate change intensifies, structures like the South Flood Control Dam will play an increasingly important role in safeguarding communities against the impacts of extreme weather events, highlighting the critical need for ongoing monitoring, maintenance, and risk management measures to ensure its continued effectiveness in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
3500 |
Dam Height |
30.9 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
64.1 |
Drainage Area |
1.3 |
Nid Storage |
900 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
31 |
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.
South Flood Control Dam
Batterson Park Pond
Begins Below The Tailrace Of The Lower Collinsville Dam To The Route 187 Bridge
The Confluence With The Nepaug River To A Point 0.2 Miles Below The Lower Collinsville Dam Tailrace
New Hartford/Canton Town Line To The Confluence With The Nepaug River
Veterans Memorial Rink
Wolcott Park
Fernridge Park
Farmington Club
Norfeldt Little League Field