Second Connecticut Lake Dam

About Second Connecticut Lake Dam

The primary purpose of Second Connecticut Lake Dam is hydroelectric. The dam generates hydroelectric power by channeling water through turbines, converting the energy of flowing water into electricity. The dam is owned by Great River Hydro Llc (private). It impounds the Connecticut River near Pittsburg.

The dam stands 28 feet tall and stretches 568 feet across, creates a reservoir covering 1,300 acres, has a maximum storage capacity of 12,500 acre-feet, and collects water from a drainage area of 45 square miles. Completed in 1849, the structure is one of the older dams in the region, with over a century and a half of service.

This dam has a low hazard potential classification, meaning that failure would cause minimal damage, limited primarily to the dam owner's property, with no expected loss of life. Its condition is rated fair — the dam has minor deficiencies that are being addressed or do not pose an immediate safety threat. An emergency action plan is in place for this dam. The most recent inspection on record was 06/24/2019.

Search for dams near your address to see all dams in your area with hazard classifications and safety data.