History of Candlewood Lake in Timeline

Candlewood Lake is a large, human-made lake situated in Fairfield and Litchfield counties in Western Connecticut. Spanning 8.4 square miles (22 km2), it holds the distinction of being the largest lake in Connecticut and the New York metropolitan area. The lake is surrounded by the city of Danbury and the towns of Brookfield, New Fairfield, New Milford, and Sherman. Its shoreline is known for its expensive real estate, particularly within the Greater Danbury area.

July 15, 1926: Approval of Pumped Storage Facilities Plan

On July 15, 1926, the Connecticut Light and Power Company's board approved a plan to create the first large-scale pumped storage facilities in the US by creating Candlewood Lake and using it to generate electricity.

July 1926: Construction of Candlewood Lake Begins

In July 1926, nearly 1,400 men began working to create Candlewood Lake. They felled woodlands and built dams, including a large dam at the north end of the valley.

February 25, 1928: First Pumping Operation

On February 25, 1928, the first pumping operation began, pouring water into the valley from the Housatonic River to fill what would become Candlewood Lake.

September 29, 1928: Candlewood Lake Completed

On September 29, 1928, the water level reached an elevation of 429 feet above sea level, and Candlewood Lake was considered completed.

June 2006: Sale of Candlewood Lake

In June 2006, CL&P sold Candlewood Lake and its hydroelectric power facilities for $9 million due to deregulation of the electric power industry.

December 2006: Treatment for Eelgrass and Algae

In December 2006, the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency treated Candlewood Lake with an organic phosphate to combat eelgrass and algae.

2008: Grass-eating Weevils Tested

In 2008, grass-eating weevils were tested as a biological method to control weeds in Candlewood Lake.

2010: Grass-eating Weevils Tested Again

In 2010, grass-eating weevils were tested again as a biological method to control weeds in Candlewood Lake.

2015: Introduction of Grass-eating Carp

In 2015, grass-eating carp were introduced into Candlewood Lake as a biological method to control weeds.

October 2016: Zebra Mussels Found

In October 2016, zebra mussels were found on the Rocky River power station for the first time, raising concerns that the invasive species would enter Candlewood Lake.