High Hill Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

High Hill Pond, also known as Shoneck Dam, is a private recreational water resource located in Meriden, Connecticut.


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Summary

Built in 1968 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 13 feet and has a length of 230 feet. With a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and an area of 12 acres, it is a beloved spot for water and climate enthusiasts to enjoy various outdoor activities.

Managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, High Hill Pond is a state-regulated structure that also serves as a crucial component of the Spoon Shop Brook watershed. The dam's spillway, uncontrolled in nature, has a width of 14 feet, ensuring the safe release of water when necessary. While its condition assessment remains unrated as of the last inspection in 2015, the hazard potential is deemed significant, with a moderate risk level assigned.

High Hill Pond offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers to explore the beauty of New Haven County's landscape. With its serene surroundings and recreational opportunities, this dam is not only a source of enjoyment for locals but also a vital piece of Connecticut's water resource infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact water systems, preserving and monitoring structures like High Hill Pond is essential for sustainable management and conservation efforts.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

230

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

SPOON SHOP BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

60

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

13
       
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.