Shepards Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Shepards Pond Dam, located in Woodstock, Connecticut, was completed in 1890 and serves as a crucial water supply source in the area.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet and has a storage capacity of 140 acre-feet, providing water for both domestic and agricultural purposes. The dam is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Despite its importance, Shepards Pond Dam has been rated as having a poor condition, with a significant hazard potential. The last inspection in November 2019 highlighted the need for improvements and maintenance to address safety concerns. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status is currently unknown, raising questions about its preparedness for potential emergencies. With a drainage area of 35.6 square miles and a maximum discharge of 1486 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Given its age and current condition, Shepards Pond Dam requires attention and investment to ensure its long-term functionality and safety. Climate change and increasing water demands further underscore the importance of maintaining and upgrading critical infrastructure like this dam to safeguard water resources for future generations. Collaborative efforts between local government, state agencies, and stakeholders will be essential in addressing the challenges and risks associated with Shepards Pond Dam.

Year Completed

1890

Dam Length

175

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

LITTLE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.2

Drainage Area

35.6

Nid Storage

140

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

38
       
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.