The Great Swamp Fc Aka Norwalk River #2 Dam, located in Ridgefield, Connecticut, is an essential flood control structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1979.
Wind
Humidity
This earth dam, primarily owned by the state, serves the purpose of flood risk reduction along the Ridgefield Brook, with a height of 12 feet and a length of 276 feet. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates help manage water levels in the 134-acre surface area and protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), the Great Swamp Dam is regularly inspected to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment as of October 2018, the dam's risk assessment is rated as moderate. Despite its age, the dam continues to effectively reduce flood risks in the area and plays a crucial role in protecting the local community and environment from excessive water flow and potential damage.
As climate change impacts continue to pose challenges to water resources and increase the frequency of extreme weather events, the Great Swamp Fc Aka Norwalk River #2 Dam remains a crucial infrastructure for maintaining flood resilience in Ridgefield. With state regulation, inspection, and enforcement in place, this dam stands as a vital piece of the flood control system in Connecticut, highlighting the importance of effective water resource management and climate adaptation strategies in safeguarding communities against natural disasters.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
276 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
RIDGEFIELD BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
134 |
Drainage Area |
2.6 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
12 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Mountain Lakes Park
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Ward Pound Ridge Reservation
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Youth Camp II
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Youth Camp I
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Youth Camp III
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