Cocassett Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Cocassett Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1886 and is 140 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 16 ft (taller than 56.3% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 350 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 215 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 180 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 32 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1886 (140 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00817 |
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
COCASSETT LAKE ASSOCIATION, INC.
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Cocassett Lake Dam?
Cocassett Lake 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 Cocassett Lake Dam?
Cocassett Lake Dam is owned by COCASSETT LAKE ASSOCIATION, INC. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cocassett Lake Dam built?
Cocassett Lake Dam was completed in 1886, making it 140 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 Cocassett Lake Dam?
Cocassett Lake 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 Cocassett Lake Dam?
Cocassett Lake Dam has a dam height of 16 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 Cocassett Lake Dam last inspected?
Cocassett Lake Dam was last inspected on September 28, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.