Hancock Brook Dam - Railroad Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Hancock Brook Dam - Railroad Dike, located in Waterbury, Connecticut, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.


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Summary

Built in 1966, this earth dam stands at a height of 51 feet and has a storage capacity of 8,720 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction along the Hancock Brook, with a maximum discharge capacity of 16,600 cubic feet per second.

With a high hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and emergency action plan to manage potential flooding events. The US Army Corps of Engineers continuously monitors the dam's condition, conducts maintenance and repairs as needed, and collaborates with local emergency managers to ensure public safety and preparedness in case of a dam-related emergency. Despite its risk management measures, the dam's limited storage capacity and potential for severe weather events necessitate careful monitoring and proactive measures to address flood risks effectively.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

630

Dam Height

51

River Or Stream

HANCOCK BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

40

Hydraulic Height

46

Drainage Area

12

Nid Storage

8720

Structural Height

51

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

51
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.