Copicut Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Copicut Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1971 and is 55 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 40 ft (taller than 92.4% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 3,500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 12.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 8.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 600 acres |
| Drainage Area | 7 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1971 (55 years old) |
| NID ID | MA02411 |
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 FALL RIVER, DEPT. OF COMMUNITY UTILITIES
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Significant Hazard 14 ftNorth Watuppa Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 8 ftTerry Brook Reservoir Dam
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High Hazard 26 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Copicut Reservoir Dam?
Copicut 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 Copicut Reservoir Dam?
Copicut Reservoir Dam is owned by CITY OF FALL RIVER, DEPT. OF COMMUNITY UTILITIES (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Copicut Reservoir Dam built?
Copicut Reservoir Dam was completed in 1971, making it 55 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 Copicut Reservoir Dam?
Copicut Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Copicut Reservoir Dam?
Copicut Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 40 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 Copicut Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Copicut Reservoir Dam was last inspected on June 30, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.