Cordingly Dam
Key Takeaway
Cordingly Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1912 and is 114 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 11 ft (taller than 25.5% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 140 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 215 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 8 acres |
| Drainage Area | 217 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1912 (114 years old) |
| NID ID | MA01116 |
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
DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION
State Government
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High Hazard 45 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cordingly Dam?
Cordingly 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 Cordingly Dam?
Cordingly Dam is owned by DCR - DEPT. OF CONSERVATION & RECREATION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cordingly Dam built?
Cordingly Dam was completed in 1912, making it 114 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 Cordingly Dam?
Cordingly Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Cordingly Dam?
Cordingly Dam has a dam height of 11 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 Cordingly Dam last inspected?
Cordingly Dam was last inspected on June 18, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.