Norwich State Hospital Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Norwich State Hospital Pond Dam, also known as Hospital Pond, is a locally owned earth dam located in Preston, Connecticut.


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Summary

The primary purpose of this dam is for recreation, providing a surface area of 12 acres and a storage capacity of 140 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 19 feet and spans a length of 300 feet, with an uncontrolled spillway width of 35 feet.

Despite its significant hazard potential, Norwich State Hospital Pond Dam has been deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in May 2018. The dam is state-regulated and regularly inspected, with a state permit for operation and enforcement measures in place. While the risk assessment is moderate, with a rating of 3, there is no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared or updated at this time.

Located along the Laurel Hill Brook to Poquetanuck Cove TR river/stream, Norwich State Hospital Pond Dam provides a recreational oasis in the area, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its picturesque setting and ample storage capacity make it a valuable asset for the community, showcasing the importance of proper dam maintenance and monitoring to ensure public safety and enjoyment.

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

LAUREL HILL BROOK TO POQUETANUCK COVE TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

0.93

Nid Storage

140

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

19
       
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.