Wilshire Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Topping Road Dam Converse Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Greenwich, Connecticut, Wilshire Pond Dam stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering, having been completed in 1920.
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Summary
This private dam, primarily designed for recreational purposes, holds back the waters of Wilshire Pond Brook, creating a serene 15-acre surface area that is perfect for outdoor activities. With a dam height of 6 feet and a length of 150 feet, this earth-type structure provides a maximum storage capacity of 58 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 32 cubic feet per second.
Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Wilshire Pond Dam poses a significant hazard potential, with a fair condition assessment as of the last inspection in 1990. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, and with a moderate risk assessment rating, it is clear that ongoing maintenance and monitoring are crucial to ensure the safety of downstream residents and infrastructure. While the dam is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), the lack of recent updates raises questions about the effectiveness of emergency action plans and risk management measures in place.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wilshire Pond Dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human intervention and natural forces. As discussions around dam safety and environmental stewardship continue to evolve, this dam stands as a tangible example of the intersection between recreational enjoyment and the need for responsible water management practices. With its unique location in Fairfield County and its role in the local ecosystem, Wilshire Pond Dam invites further exploration and consideration of the challenges and opportunities associated with managing water resources in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
6 |
River Or Stream |
WILSHIRE POND BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15 |
Drainage Area |
0.75 |
Nid Storage |
58 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
6 |
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.
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