Babson Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Babson Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1930 and is 96 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 | 44 ft (taller than 94.2% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 630 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 925 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 635 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 40 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1930 (96 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00187 |
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
CITY OF GLOUCESTER, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
Local Government
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High Hazard 16 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Babson Reservoir Dam?
Babson Reservoir 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 Babson Reservoir Dam?
Babson Reservoir Dam is owned by CITY OF GLOUCESTER, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Babson Reservoir Dam built?
Babson Reservoir Dam was completed in 1930, making it 96 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 Babson Reservoir Dam?
Babson Reservoir 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 Babson Reservoir Dam?
Babson Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 44 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 Babson Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Babson Reservoir Dam was last inspected on October 30, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.