The Mad River Flood Control Dam, located in Winchester, Connecticut, was completed in 1963 and stands at a height of 178 feet with a length of 940 feet.
Wind
Humidity
This masonry dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Mad River, providing a maximum storage capacity of 11,300 acre-feet. With a high hazard potential, the dam is maintained by the state and regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP).
The dam's satisfactory condition assessment and regular inspections ensure its effectiveness in mitigating flood risks in the area. In the event of an emergency, an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is in place, with the last revision in February 2017. The dam has a spillway width of 340 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 29,600 cubic feet per second, making it a critical infrastructure for water resource and climate management enthusiasts in the region.
Overall, the Mad River Flood Control Dam is a vital structure for flood risk reduction in Litchfield County, Connecticut. Its strategic location and design contribute to the protection of surrounding communities from potential inundation and serve as a key component of water resource management efforts in the region. With state oversight and regular maintenance, this dam plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and resilience of the area's water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
940 |
Dam Height |
178 |
River Or Stream |
MAD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
10 |
Drainage Area |
18.2 |
Nid Storage |
11300 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
178 |
The Hartland Headwaters To The Confluence With The Salmon Brook Main Stem
New Hartford/Canton Town Line To The Confluence With The Nepaug River
The Confluence With The Nepaug River To A Point 0.2 Miles Below The Lower Collinsville Dam Tailrace
Begins Below The Tailrace Of The Lower Collinsville Dam To The Route 187 Bridge