Cheshire Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Cheshire Reservoir Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1870 and is 156 years old. Its primary use is fish and wildlife pond. 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 | 50 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 4.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.6K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 620 acres |
| Drainage Area | 16 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1870 (156 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00211 |
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
DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION
State Government
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What is the hazard classification of Cheshire Reservoir Dam?
Cheshire 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 Cheshire Reservoir Dam?
Cheshire Reservoir Dam is owned by DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cheshire Reservoir Dam built?
Cheshire Reservoir Dam was completed in 1870, making it 156 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 Cheshire Reservoir Dam?
Cheshire Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Cheshire Reservoir Dam?
Cheshire Reservoir 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 Cheshire Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Cheshire Reservoir Dam was last inspected on March 8, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.