Forest Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Forest Lake Dam, located in New Fairfield, Connecticut, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1930, this masonry dam stands at a height of 14 feet and has a length of 53 feet, providing a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet. Situated on Bates Brook, the dam's significant hazard potential underscores the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

Managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), Forest Lake Dam is regulated by the state and subject to permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures. Despite being classified as "not rated" in terms of condition assessment, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status remains unclear, raising questions about its readiness for potential risks and emergencies. With a drainage area of 0.19 square miles and a maximum discharge of 3 cubic feet per second, the dam's importance in safeguarding the surrounding environment and community cannot be understated.

As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Forest Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the critical role that infrastructure plays in balancing recreational needs with public safety and environmental stewardship. Its location within Fairfield County and proximity to New Fairfield underscores the interconnectedness of water resources management and the need for proactive risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the long-term sustainability of the dam and its surrounding ecosystem.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

53

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

BATES BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

9

Drainage Area

0.19

Nid Storage

57

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

14
       
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.