Spaulding Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in North Stonington, Connecticut, the Spaulding Pond Dam is a private-owned structure built in 1900 primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

The dam, standing at a height of 7 feet and a length of 90 feet, holds a storage capacity of 136 acre-feet of water and covers a surface area of 34 acres. It is situated along the Wassup Brook, within the New London County, and is regulated by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP).

The dam has a significant hazard potential and is considered to be in fair condition as of the last assessment in November 2020. It has a spillway width of 18 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 138 cubic feet per second. Although there have been no reported modifications in recent years, the dam undergoes inspections every 7 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The presence of the Spaulding Pond Dam provides both recreational opportunities for the community and a source of water storage for the surrounding area.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in the region can appreciate the historical significance and functional importance of the Spaulding Pond Dam. As a key structure along the Wassup Brook, the dam contributes to the local ecosystem and serves as a vital component in managing water resources in the area. Its maintenance and regulation by the state authorities ensure the safety of the community and the preservation of the dam for future generations to enjoy.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

90

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

WASSUP BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

34

Drainage Area

11.4

Nid Storage

136

Hazard Potential

Significant

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.