Pemberwick Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Greenwich, Connecticut, Pemberwick Dam, also known as Pemberwick Pond, stands as a testament to the area's rich history and commitment to water resource management.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1867, this private concrete dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene retreat for locals and visitors alike. With a height of 44 feet and a length of 115 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and a surface area of 5.5 acres, making it a significant feature in the Byram River watershed.

Managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), Pemberwick Dam is subject to regular state inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Although assessed to be in fair condition with a high hazard potential, the dam continues to provide essential water storage and flood control benefits to the surrounding community. Its location in Fairfield County, along with its close proximity to the city of Pemberwick, makes it a valuable recreational asset and a vital component of the region's hydraulic infrastructure.

As climate change increasingly impacts water resources and infrastructure, the significance of structures like Pemberwick Dam cannot be overstated. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1,100 cubic feet per second and a history dating back over a century, this historic dam serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for sustainable water management practices in the face of evolving environmental challenges. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to advocate for resilient infrastructure and conservation efforts, Pemberwick Dam stands as a tangible example of the intersection between human ingenuity and natural systems in the quest for a more sustainable future.

Year Completed

1867

Dam Length

115

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

BYRAM RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

5.5

Drainage Area

25.8

Nid Storage

60

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

44
       
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.