Central Street Dam
Key Takeaway
Central Street Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 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 | 24 ft (taller than 77.7% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 400 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 840 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 400 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1 acres |
| Drainage Area | 86 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1900 (126 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00340 |
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
SAXONVILLE REALTY TRUST
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Central Street Dam?
Central Street 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 Central Street Dam?
Central Street Dam is owned by SAXONVILLE REALTY TRUST (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Central Street Dam built?
Central Street 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 Central Street Dam?
Central Street 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 Central Street Dam?
Central Street Dam has a dam height of 24 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 Central Street Dam last inspected?
Central Street Dam was last inspected on March 21, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.