Enfield Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Enfield Dam, located on the Connecticut River in Hartford, Connecticut, is a private-owned structure primarily used for recreation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1825, this concrete dam stands at 7 feet high and spans a length of 1550 feet, providing a storage capacity of 10,744 acre-feet. Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Enfield Dam's condition assessment is poor, with a low hazard potential but moderate risk level. The last inspection in 2015 highlighted the need for maintenance and improvement to ensure the safety and functionality of the dam.

The dam's primary purpose for recreation attracts water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy activities along the Connecticut River. However, with a poor condition assessment and moderate risk level, there is a pressing need for investment in maintenance and risk management measures to address potential safety concerns. As a state-regulated and permitted structure, the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) oversees the enforcement, inspection, and regulatory aspects of the dam to ensure compliance with safety standards and environmental guidelines. Despite its challenges, Enfield Dam remains a significant landmark in the region, offering opportunities for recreation and water resource exploration.

In light of its historical significance and recreational value, Enfield Dam serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to engage with Connecticut's natural landscape. With its moderate risk level and poor condition assessment, there is a call for proactive measures to maintain and improve the dam's safety and functionality. As efforts are made to address these challenges, Enfield Dam continues to be a popular destination for outdoor activities and a reminder of the importance of preserving and managing our water resources effectively.

Year Completed

1825

Dam Length

1550

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

CONNECTICUT RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

1580

Drainage Area

9661

Nid Storage

10744

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

7
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.