Ford Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Ford Pond Dam, located in Sharon, Connecticut, was completed in 1880 and serves as a vital resource for fish and wildlife conservation in the area.


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Summary

The earth dam stands at a height of 10.5 feet and spans 400 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 122 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Mill Brook Tributary and is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), with regular inspections and enforcement ensuring its safety and functionality.

With a surface area of 17.4 acres and a drainage area of 1.16 square miles, Ford Pond Dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and providing habitat for local wildlife. The dam has a significant hazard potential and is classified as not rated in terms of condition assessment, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance. While the dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks an emergency action plan, its strategic location and purpose make it a key asset for water resource management and environmental conservation efforts in the region.

As a privately owned structure, Ford Pond Dam represents a blend of historical significance and contemporary conservation practices. With its primary purpose of supporting fish and wildlife populations, the dam exemplifies the balance between human development and ecosystem protection. Its presence underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in safeguarding natural habitats for future generations.

Year Completed

1880

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

10.5

River Or Stream

MILL BROOK TRIB

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17.4

Drainage Area

1.16

Nid Storage

122

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

11
       
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.