Williams Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Williams Pond Dam, also known as Williams Pond Soap Factory Pond, is a private-owned structure located in Glastonbury, Connecticut.


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Summary

Built in 1900, this concrete dam stands at a height of 17 feet and spans 190 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 25 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, offering a serene spot for water enthusiasts to enjoy.

Despite its recreational appeal, Williams Pond Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been rated in poor condition as of the last assessment in 2014. The dam is state-regulated and subject to regular inspections, but its maintenance and safety measures may be lacking. With a drainage area of 2.2 square miles and a spillway width of 8 feet, the dam's capacity to handle maximum discharge of 212 cubic feet per second is crucial for flood protection in the area.

Given its age and condition, Williams Pond Dam warrants careful monitoring and potentially updated risk assessment and management measures to ensure the safety of downstream communities and the preservation of the surrounding environment. Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure and natural resources would find this dam a compelling case study for understanding the challenges of maintaining aging structures in the face of evolving climate conditions.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

190

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

HUBBARD BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

1.6

Drainage Area

2.2

Nid Storage

25

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

17
       
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.