Sheppard Pond Aka Masterbone Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sheppard Pond, also known as Masterbone Dam, is a private recreational water resource located in Plymouth, Connecticut.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam, with a height of 9 feet and a length of 320 feet, creates a tranquil 2-acre surface area on Todd Hollow Brook for activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. While the primary purpose of the dam is recreation, it also serves as a vital water resource in the area.

Managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), Sheppard Pond is state-regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and compliance with environmental standards. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and significant hazard potential warrant regular inspections, with the most recent assessment in September 2017 rating its condition as satisfactory. With a moderate risk assessment of 3, Sheppard Pond continues to be a beloved destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts in Litchfield County, Connecticut.

Despite its modest size, Sheppard Pond offers a peaceful retreat for residents and visitors alike, highlighting the importance of maintaining and managing water resources for both recreational and ecological purposes. As a privately owned dam, its role in providing recreational opportunities while managing water flow and storage underscores the delicate balance between human enjoyment and environmental stewardship in a changing climate. With continued oversight and maintenance, Sheppard Pond stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Dam Length

320

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

TODD HOLLOW BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Drainage Area

0.79

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

9
       
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.