Aaron River Dam
Key Takeaway
Aaron River Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1976 and is 50 years old. Its primary use is water supply. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 30 ft (taller than 86.6% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 1,130 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 143 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1976 (50 years old) |
| NID ID | MA01280 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
TOWN OF COHASSET, BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Bound Brook Dam
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Significant Hazard 11 ftBound Brook Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 5 ftNichols Road Dam
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Significant Hazard 10 ftFulling Mill Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 8 ftStraits Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 12 ftJacobs Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 11 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Aaron River Dam?
Aaron River Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Aaron River Dam?
Aaron River Dam is owned by TOWN OF COHASSET, BOARD OF SELECTMEN (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Aaron River Dam built?
Aaron River Dam was completed in 1976, making it 50 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Aaron River Dam?
Aaron River Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Aaron River Dam?
Aaron River Dam has a dam height of 30 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Aaron River Dam last inspected?
Aaron River Dam was last inspected on January 20, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.