Bristol Reservoir #3 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bristol Reservoir #3 Dam, located in Plymouth, Connecticut, serves as a crucial water supply resource for the region.


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Summary

This masonry dam stands at a height of 14 feet and has a length of 240 feet, creating a reservoir with a surface area of 4.1 acres and a drainage area of 5.74 acres. The dam is primarily regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and is classified as having a significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment.

Despite its age and condition, Bristol Reservoir #3 Dam plays a vital role in ensuring water security for the local community. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in August 2017, indicating efforts to maintain safety protocols in case of any unforeseen events. With its location on the Poland River and its critical function in water supply, the dam serves as a key infrastructure asset that requires ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued operational integrity.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the complexities of infrastructure like Bristol Reservoir #3 Dam highlights the importance of sustainable water management practices. The dam's significance in providing essential water supply underscores the need for proactive measures to address its poor condition assessment and mitigate potential risks. By staying engaged in the maintenance and regulation of structures like this, we can contribute to the resilience of our water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

240

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

POLAND RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

4.1

Drainage Area

5.74

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

14
       
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.