Beach Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Beach Pond Dam, located in Voluntown, Connecticut, is a state-regulated earth dam constructed in 1885 with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 12 feet and spans a length of 350 feet, impounding a maximum storage capacity of 5,800 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 4,100 acre-feet. Situated on the Pachaug River, the dam has a significant hazard potential with a fair condition assessment as of the last inspection in October 2018.

With a drainage area of 4.98 square miles, Beach Pond Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area, with a surface area of 459 acres and a maximum discharge capacity of 365 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the dam is regularly inspected by state authorities, with a mandated inspection frequency of 5 years. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in September 1982, highlighting the need for updated risk assessment and management measures in the face of changing climate conditions and potential hazards.

Surrounded by the natural beauty of the New London County in Connecticut, Beach Pond Dam offers not only recreational opportunities but also serves as a vital infrastructure for flood control and water storage. As climate change intensifies, the resilience and sustainability of this historic dam will be essential in ensuring the safety and well-being of the surrounding communities. With proper maintenance and risk assessment, Beach Pond Dam can continue to stand as a testament to the intersection of human engineering and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1885

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

PACHAUG RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

459

Drainage Area

4.98

Nid Storage

5800

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.