Cochichewick River Dam

COCHICHEWICK RIVER· Essex, Massachusetts· Built 1820· Concrete· 13 ft tall
Significant Hazard Other Private

Key Takeaway

Cochichewick River Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1820 and is 206 years old. Its primary use is other. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 13 ft (taller than 39.5% in MA)
Dam Length216 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage32 acre-ft
Normal Storage20 acre-ft
Surface Area3 acres
Drainage Area7 sq mi
Year Completed1820 (206 years old)
NID IDMA01595

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: June 30, 2016
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION AND RECREATION

Ownership

DIZZY BRIDGE REALTY TRUST

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Cochichewick River Dam?

Cochichewick River 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 Cochichewick River Dam?

Cochichewick River Dam is owned by DIZZY BRIDGE REALTY TRUST (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Cochichewick River Dam built?

Cochichewick River Dam was completed in 1820, making it 206 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 Cochichewick River Dam?

Cochichewick River Dam serves the following purposes: Other. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Cochichewick River Dam?

Cochichewick River Dam has a dam height of 13 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 Cochichewick River Dam last inspected?

Cochichewick River Dam was last inspected on June 30, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.