Ashfield Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Ashfield Pond Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1897 and is 129 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 15 ft (taller than 48.8% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 775 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 501 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 306 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 37 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1897 (129 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00523 |
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 ASHFIELD, BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Local Government
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Low Hazard 76 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Ashfield Pond Dam?
Ashfield Pond 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 Ashfield Pond Dam?
Ashfield Pond Dam is owned by TOWN OF ASHFIELD, BOARD OF SELECTMEN (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Ashfield Pond Dam built?
Ashfield Pond Dam was completed in 1897, making it 129 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 Ashfield Pond Dam?
Ashfield Pond Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Ashfield Pond Dam?
Ashfield Pond Dam has a dam height of 15 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 Ashfield Pond Dam last inspected?
Ashfield Pond Dam was last inspected on October 7, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.