Balch Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Balch Pond Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 12 ft (taller than 32.1% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 300 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 60 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 47 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 6 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| NID ID | MA00135 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
TOWN OF AYER, BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Low Hazard 7 ftLong Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 8 ftLower Long Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 12 ftBare Hill Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 9 ftSquannacook River Dam
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High Hazard 18 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Balch Pond Dam?
Balch Pond Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Balch Pond Dam?
Balch Pond Dam is owned by TOWN OF AYER, BOARD OF SELECTMEN (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
What is the primary purpose of Balch Pond Dam?
Balch Pond Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Balch Pond Dam?
Balch Pond Dam has a dam height of 12 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 Balch Pond Dam last inspected?
Balch Pond Dam was last inspected on June 11, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.