Bladens River Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bladens River Dam, also known as Paper Mill Pond, is a historic masonry dam located in Seymour, Connecticut.


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Summary

Built in 1906, this dam serves as a critical water supply source for the area with a storage capacity of 17 acre-feet and a drainage area of 10.1 square miles. The dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a length of 330 feet, creating a surface area of 1.3 acres.

Despite its age and historical significance, Bladens River Dam is facing challenges in terms of its condition assessment, rated as poor, and its hazard potential, considered significant. The last inspection in August 2015 highlighted these concerns, prompting a need for regular monitoring and potential maintenance or rehabilitation efforts. The dam is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and undergoes inspections every five years to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

With its picturesque location along the Bladens River and its vital role in providing water supply, Bladens River Dam represents a blend of history, engineering, and environmental stewardship. As a private-owned structure, it requires ongoing attention to address its deteriorating condition and mitigate any potential risks to the surrounding community. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the preservation and management of this dam serve as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1906

Dam Length

330

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

BLADENS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

1.3

Drainage Area

10.1

Nid Storage

17

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

12
       
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.