Cowee Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Cowee Pond Dam is classified as high hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 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 | 15 ft (taller than 48.8% in MA) |
| Dam Length | 200 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 265 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 220 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 17 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1900 (126 years old) |
| NID ID | MA00118 |
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 GARDNER, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Significant Hazard 11 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cowee Pond Dam?
Cowee 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 Cowee Pond Dam?
Cowee Pond Dam is owned by CITY OF GARDNER, DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cowee Pond Dam built?
Cowee Pond Dam was completed in 1900, making it 126 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 Cowee Pond Dam?
Cowee Pond 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 Cowee Pond Dam?
Cowee 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 Cowee Pond Dam last inspected?
Cowee Pond Dam was last inspected on December 15, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.