Coes Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Coes Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1865 and is 161 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 21 ft (taller than 72.5% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 600 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 672 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 90 acres |
| Drainage Area | 12 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1865 (161 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00120 |
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
CITY OF WORCESTER, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS & PARKS
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 15 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Coes Reservoir Dam?
Coes Reservoir 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 Coes Reservoir Dam?
Coes Reservoir Dam is owned by CITY OF WORCESTER, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS & PARKS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Coes Reservoir Dam built?
Coes Reservoir Dam was completed in 1865, making it 161 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 Coes Reservoir Dam?
Coes Reservoir 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 Coes Reservoir Dam?
Coes Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 21 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 Coes Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Coes Reservoir Dam was last inspected on November 13, 2014. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.