Zemko Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Zemko Pond Dam, located in Salem, Connecticut, was completed in 1968 and is primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

This earth dam, designed by the USDA NRCS, stands at a height of 13 feet and has a length of 405 feet, creating a surface area of 7.8 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 82 acre-feet. The dam, located on Harris Brook, is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and is inspected regularly to ensure its safety.

Despite being rated as having low hazard potential, Zemko Pond Dam poses a moderate risk due to its proximity to residential areas. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 50 feet and outlet gates that are also uncontrolled. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, it meets state regulatory requirements and is subject to regular inspections. The surrounding area does not have inundation maps prepared, but emergency action plans may be in place to address any potential risks associated with the dam.

Overall, Zemko Pond Dam serves as a vital recreational resource for the community while also posing a moderate risk in terms of its potential impact on nearby residents. With its picturesque setting and regulated maintenance, the dam stands as a testament to the balance between water resource management and climate resilience in the state of Connecticut.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

405

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

HARRIS BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.8

Drainage Area

0.86

Nid Storage

82

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

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.