Ian Applegate

Following a period of heavy rainfall that caused significant flooding, I captured drone footage in the late afternoon of the Lake Zoar area in Monroe, Connecticut. The region, shaped by the Housatonic River, is home to the Stevenson Dam—a key hydroelectric dam that has been part of Connecticut's energy infrastructure since its construction in 1917.

The Stevenson Dam, a gravity-arch dam, creates Lake Zoar, one of the largest lakes in Connecticut. It is a vital source of hydroelectric power, generating renewable energy for the area. This dam represents a significant piece of Connecticut's industrial history, marking an early step in harnessing natural resources for sustainable energy production.

The recent heavy rainfall underscored the importance of such infrastructure, as hydroelectric dams like Stevenson help manage water levels while converting the river’s energy into electricity. Connecticut experiences an average annual rainfall of about 45–50 inches, with periods of concentrated rain often contributing to flooding challenges in low-lying areas and near riverbanks. Footage of Lake Zoar after the floods provides insight into how the region’s waterways respond to extreme weather and highlights the enduring role of the Stevenson Dam in balancing environmental and human needs.