Collins Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Collins Pond Dam, located in New Canaan, Connecticut, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

This masonry dam stands at a height of 10 feet with a length of 225 feet, creating a surface area of 7.3 acres and draining an area of 5.11 square miles. The dam is situated along the Rippowam River and is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP).

Despite its fair condition assessment as of the last inspection in July 2014, Collins Pond Dam presents a significant hazard potential, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance. With an inspection frequency of 5 years, it is crucial to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure, especially given its location and the potential risks associated with a breach. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 20 feet and no outlet gates, emphasizing the importance of effective risk management measures and emergency preparedness.

In the realm of water resource and climate concerns, the data surrounding Collins Pond Dam underscores the intersection of human activities with natural systems. As enthusiasts in this field, there is a compelling need to delve deeper into the management and regulation of such structures to safeguard both the environment and the communities that depend on these water resources for various purposes. By understanding the nuances of dam infrastructure and its implications for water management and climate resilience, we can work towards a more sustainable and secure future for our water resources.

Dam Length

225

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

RIPPOWAM RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

7.3

Drainage Area

5.11

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

10
       
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.