Bates Power Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Bates Power Reservoir Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1923 and is 103 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 9 ft (taller than 12.4% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 300 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 230 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 100 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 33 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1923 (103 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00650 |
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 ATHOL, BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 8 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Bates Power Reservoir Dam?
Bates Power Reservoir 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 Bates Power Reservoir Dam?
Bates Power Reservoir Dam is owned by TOWN OF ATHOL, BOARD OF SELECTMEN (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Bates Power Reservoir Dam built?
Bates Power Reservoir Dam was completed in 1923, making it 103 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 Bates Power Reservoir Dam?
Bates Power Reservoir 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 Bates Power Reservoir Dam?
Bates Power Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 9 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 Bates Power Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Bates Power Reservoir Dam was last inspected on December 1, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.