American Can Company Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The American Can Company Dam, also known as North Lake, is a privately owned structure located in Fairfield, Connecticut.


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Summary

Completed in 1970, this concrete dam stands at a height of 53 feet and spans a length of 543 feet. Its primary purpose is for recreation, offering a surface area of 2 acres and a normal storage capacity of 18 acre-feet. Despite its recreational focus, the dam is classified as having a high hazard potential due to its proximity to the UNNAMED TO RYE LAKE / KENISCO RESERVOIR NY water source.

Managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), this dam is subject to state regulations, permitting, and inspection. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 15 feet and outlet gates controlled by valves. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the American Can Company Dam serves as a critical structure in the local water resource infrastructure, balancing the needs of recreation with the responsibility of ensuring public safety and environmental protection. As a key component in the region's water management system, it plays a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance and safeguarding against potential risks associated with water resource management.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

543

Dam Height

53

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TO RYE LAKE / KENISCO RESERVOIR NY

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

2

Drainage Area

0.02

Nid Storage

61

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

53
       
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.