Residents urge pause on Stoddard Reservoir removal, cite wildlife and historic use

Several Simsbury residents urged the Board of Selectmen on July 13 to pause plans to remove or convert Stoddard Reservoir and to explore alternatives that would preserve habitat and historic recreational uses.

Fred Bonanni, a longtime angler who said he has fished the reservoir for decades, told the board the pond is now badly silted and that a restoration approach with the Fish & Game Club and state grants should be considered rather than expensive removal. “There are protected freshwater clams, brook trout, snapping turtles and otters — it’s incredible what’s in that reservoir,” Bonanni said.

Norris Christensen and Ned Christensen described the reservoir’s historical role for local recreation and emergency water supply, noting that siltation has reduced depth and arguing that other mitigation — including selective dredging or stabilizing the dam — should be examined. Norris Christensen asked the board for “a pause” and additional study of lower‑cost alternatives before committing to a costly replacement or removal plan.

Public commenters said the reservoir supports migratory birds and other wildlife, and that the pond has served generations for fishing, skating and community activities. Multiple speakers asked the town to work with the Farmington Valley Watershed Association and to pursue state grants or appropriations for dam repair instead of immediate removal.

Board members acknowledged the public’s concerns and said staff will collect further technical information and a fact sheet, including environmental impacts and DEP guidance. The chair said the town will request more details from the engineering and environmental teams before advancing any final recommendation.