Bems Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Bems Pond Dam is classified as low hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 9 ft (taller than 12.4% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 160 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 87 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 64 acre-ft |
| Drainage Area | 2,100 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1900 (126 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00665 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
PINECREST PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOC.
Private
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Significant Hazard 15 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Bems Pond Dam?
Bems Pond Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Bems Pond Dam?
Bems Pond Dam is owned by PINECREST PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOC. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Bems Pond Dam built?
Bems Pond Dam was completed in 1900, making it 126 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 Bems Pond Dam?
Bems 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 Bems Pond Dam?
Bems Pond 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 Bems Pond Dam last inspected?
Bems Pond Dam was last inspected on August 20, 2009. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.