Cook's Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Cook's Pond Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 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 | 15 ft (taller than 48.8% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 365 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 150 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 100 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 15 acres |
| Drainage Area | 7 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1920 (106 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00123 |
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
SMITH POND CORPORATION
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Cook's Pond Dam?
Cook's Pond 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 Cook's Pond Dam?
Cook's Pond Dam is owned by SMITH POND CORPORATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cook's Pond Dam built?
Cook's Pond Dam was completed in 1920, making it 106 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 Cook's Pond Dam?
Cook's Pond 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 Cook's Pond Dam?
Cook's Pond Dam has a dam height of 15 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 Cook's Pond Dam last inspected?
Cook's Pond Dam was last inspected on December 7, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.