Abbey Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Abbey Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1967 and is 59 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 40 ft (taller than 92.4% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 210 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 889 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 154 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 36 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1967 (59 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00305 |
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
DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION
State Government
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High Hazard 94 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Abbey Lake Dam?
Abbey Lake 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 Abbey Lake Dam?
Abbey Lake Dam is owned by DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Abbey Lake Dam built?
Abbey Lake Dam was completed in 1967, making it 59 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 Abbey Lake Dam?
Abbey Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Abbey Lake Dam?
Abbey Lake Dam has a dam height of 40 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 Abbey Lake Dam last inspected?
Abbey Lake Dam was last inspected on June 15, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.