Spooner is a historic hydroelectric dam located on the Housatonic River in Gaylordsville, Connecticut.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1902, this rockfill dam stands at 17 feet in height and spans 156 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 400 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation and recreation, with a maximum discharge capability of 10,900 cubic feet per second.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Spooner Dam has a low hazard potential and is not currently regulated by the state. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not available, and it undergoes inspections every three years to ensure its structural integrity. With a spillway width of 131 feet and a drainage area of 784 square miles, Spooner plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the Litchfield County region.
Although its emergency action plan was last revised in 2012, Spooner Dam continues to meet safety guidelines and remains a key component of the region's risk management measures. With its moderate risk assessment rating, efforts are ongoing to ensure the dam's continued safe operation and to address any potential risks associated with its structure. As a significant water resource infrastructure in the area, Spooner Dam underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices and the integration of climate considerations in infrastructure planning.
Year Completed |
1902 |
Dam Length |
156 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
Housatonic River |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
120 |
Drainage Area |
784 |
Nid Storage |
400 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
17 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Schaghticoke Mountain Camping Area
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Lake Waramaug State Park
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Macedonia Brook State Park
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SR4
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SR3
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SR2
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