Ballardvale Dam
Key Takeaway
Ballardvale Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1838 and is 188 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 14 ft (taller than 45.2% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 90 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 290 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 110 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 34 acres |
| Drainage Area | 65 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1838 (188 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00154 |
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
SHAWSHEEN RUBBER CO., INC.
Private
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High Hazard 11 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Ballardvale Dam?
Ballardvale 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 Ballardvale Dam?
Ballardvale Dam is owned by SHAWSHEEN RUBBER CO., INC. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Ballardvale Dam built?
Ballardvale Dam was completed in 1838, making it 188 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 Ballardvale Dam?
Ballardvale 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 Ballardvale Dam?
Ballardvale Dam has a dam height of 14 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 Ballardvale Dam last inspected?
Ballardvale Dam was last inspected on December 28, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.