Ymca Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ymca Pond Dam in Groton, Connecticut, serves as a vital recreational area along the Hempstead Brook, offering a serene and picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.


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Summary

Constructed in 1920, this earth dam stands at a height of 7 feet and spans 150 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet. With a surface area of 16 acres and a drainage area of 0.32 square miles, the dam provides a tranquil oasis for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.

Managed by a private owner and regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), Ymca Pond Dam has a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated. Although the dam does not have a designated spillway type, it features a spillway width of 4 feet to facilitate controlled water releases. Despite the lack of recent inspection data, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are key components in ensuring the safety and preservation of this recreational structure for future generations to enjoy.

As a beloved landmark in New London County, Ymca Pond Dam stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of water resources and human recreation. With its historical significance and environmental importance, this dam serves as a beacon of sustainable water management practices and a valuable asset for local communities and visitors alike.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

HEMPSTEAD BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Drainage Area

0.32

Nid Storage

72

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

7
       
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.