Waypoint 10: The Shepaug Dam
The Shepaug Dam is a hydroelectric power dam that was constructed by Connecticut Light and Power company in 1955 (Lake Lillinonah, which is above the Dam, was formed as a result). The lake is integral to the surrounding natural habitat as it prevents the water from freezing in the winter, allowing animals that don’t migrate to eat throughout the winter. The Shepaug Dam has also been historically known for its eagle observatory, which opened in 1985. Onlookers can watch as many different species of eagles and hawks, including the bald eagle as they fly above the reservoir. Some people have spotted over twenty bald eagles in a day! Conservation efforts and protective action has boosted the Bald Eagle population at the Dam, as well as the surrounding habitat. Although it was restricted by the COVID-19 pandemic, the observatory and dam are still functioning to this day.