West Fork Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

West Fork Pond Dam, located in Greenwich, Connecticut, was completed in 1940 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This private-owned earth dam stands at a height of 4 feet and spans 300 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet. Situated on the Horseneck Brook tributary, the dam serves as a vital water resource in the area, with a drainage area of 2.4 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 110 cubic feet per second. Despite its recreational significance, the dam is currently assessed to be in poor condition, with a significant hazard potential.

The dam's poor condition has raised concerns among water resource and climate enthusiasts, prompting the need for regular inspections and maintenance. The last inspection was conducted in March 1994, with an inspection frequency of 7 years. With a spillway width of 20 feet and a surface area of 15 acres, the dam poses a risk of failure that could lead to potential inundation in the surrounding area. The lack of an Emergency Action Plan and updated risk assessment further highlights the importance of ensuring the safety and integrity of West Fork Pond Dam to protect the local community and environment.

As efforts to address the dam's condition continue, stakeholders are urged to prioritize risk management measures and emergency preparedness to mitigate potential hazards. With its historical significance and recreational value, West Fork Pond Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in safeguarding infrastructure and communities against the impacts of climate change. Collaboration between regulatory agencies, private owners, and the local community will be essential in ensuring the long-term safety and sustainability of this critical water resource in Fairfield County, Connecticut.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

4

River Or Stream

HORSENECK BROOK TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Drainage Area

2.4

Nid Storage

52

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

4
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.